Caring for your eyes
Rest assured that at Al Shifa our thorough eye care services will ensure that all your optical needs are expertly taken care of.
Understanding eye care
Many individuals believe that visiting an optometrist is primarily for improving eyesight, assuming that a new pair of glasses or contact lenses will suffice. However, a comprehensive eye examination serves a greater purpose than just assessing vision.
It also aims to detect early indicators of various eye conditions such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, keratoconus, retinal detachment, CMV retinitis, inflammation, swelling, and numerous others.
Identifying issues with your overall well-being.
Having an eye examination can help detect underlying health issues throughout your body. These may consist of diabetes, hypertension, autoimmune diseases, elevated cholesterol levels, thyroid disorders, aneurysms, and various other conditions. In addition to being worrisome on their own, some of these ailments can also impact your eyesight and overall eye health.
We take care of your eyes in lots of different ways
Listening carefully – our goal is to understand you better by paying attention to your individual lifestyle, your preferences regarding vision, and your specific needs for eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Offereing exceptional eye exams – our team is available to provide clear explanations, respond to your inquiries, provide guidance, and alleviate any concerns you may have – whether it pertains to your eyesight or a loose hinge on your eyeglasses.
Looking after your eyes
- Ensure regular eye examinations are scheduled to detect any potential eye issues early and identify any underlying health problems.
- Consume a well-balanced diet rich in green and yellow/orange vegetables, egg yolks, fish, and whole grains to prevent certain eye diseases.
- Engage in regular physical activity to reduce the risk of health conditions that can impact the eyes, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
- Quit smoking to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals that can damage the eyes and reduce oxygen flow to the retina.
- Give your eyes a break and prevent strain by taking short breaks every 20 minutes during activities that require intense focus, like using screens or reading extensively.
- Understand your individual risk factors for eye issues, such as family history or eye colour, to take proactive measures.
- Shield your eyes from harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses or clear lenses with UV protection when outdoors.
- Avoid direct eye contact with the sun, especially during events like an eclipse.
- Encourage children to spend time outside to support proper eye development and reduce the risk of nearsightedness, while also limiting excessive screen time.
- Refrain from touching your eyes with unwashed hands, as they can carry bacteria that may lead to infections.
- Maintain clean contact lenses or consider using daily disposables for optimal eye health.
- Regularly replace eye makeup to prevent bacterial buildup that can cause eye infections and inflammation.
- Wear appropriate eye protection during activities like swimming, DIY projects, or certain gardening tasks.
- Stay vigilant for any changes in vision or discomfort in your eyes, and seek assistance if needed.
- Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any concerns or questions, either by visiting our office or giving us a call.
The eye examinations at our clinic are carried out by skilled optometrists who will take care of every detail from beginning to end. We go beyond just assessing your vision, delving into all aspects of your eye health.
After your examination, our knowledgeable dispensing team will be briefed by the optometrist on your results. They will have a clear understanding of your prescription and will expertly recommend the best options for correcting your vision, whether that be through glasses or contact lenses.
More than just an eye test
Our top priority is ensuring the continued health of your eyes. With a unique opportunity to examine your eyes in great detail, our optometrists can detect any issues that may go unnoticed by others.
An eye exam at Al Shifa opticians goes beyond just testing your vision – it can identify early signs of eye conditions like glaucoma, infections, and cataracts, as well as uncover underlying health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and autoimmune disorders.
The more comprehensive the eye exam, the more reliable the results. By scheduling regular eye tests, you increase the likelihood of early detection and treatment of any potential conditions, providing peace of mind for both you and our optometrists.
NHS funded eye tests
If you qualify for a free NHS eye test, not only can you have an NHS eye test at Al Shifa opticians for free.
You could be entitled to free eye tests if:
- you’re under the age of 16, or 16-18 and in full-time education
- you’re over 60
- you (or a close family member) have been diagnosed with glaucoma
- you’re registered blind or partially sighted
- you claim benefits
- you’re entitled to Complex Lens Vouchers or hold an HC2 or HC3 certificate.
To find out if you’re eligible, please call and we’ll be more than happy to assist!
People sometimes assume that because children are young, they’re not likely to have eye problems. In fact, if a child has always had a problem, they may not know the difference. And they may even have difficulty verbalising whether anything is wrong.
Children's Eye Care
We take joy in welcoming both young children and teenagers. Our team is highly skilled and adept at making eye exams a fun experience for all. We are experts at handling restless little ones who struggle to stay still during their appointment. Our collection of children’s eyeglasses is vast and varied, making it a delight for kids to explore and try on different styles.
The vision of a child is extremely valuable. It can significantly impact their learning abilities, social interactions, and overall potential for success. Unfortunately, many children in the UK are living with undiagnosed eye conditions, putting them at risk for lifelong issues.
Al Shifa opticians recognizes the importance of protecting children’s eyes from UV damage, which can occur at any time of year, not just in the summer. Outdoor daylight plays a crucial role in the proper development of the eyeball, reducing the risk of developing near-sightedness. Encouraging children to spend time outdoors also helps limit screen time, promoting healthier vision habits.
How long are children’s eye tests?
Our comprehensive eye examinations are conducted by expert optometrists and typically last around 20 minutes for children and teenagers who already wear glasses, or 15 minutes for those who do not. To make scheduling more convenient for you, we are more than happy to schedule your child’s appointment immediately following your own eye exam.
The costs of a children’s eye test
We provide complimentary eye exams for children under 16 and for individuals aged 16-18 who are still in school. Additionally, there is an option to receive a detailed diagnostic scan for a nominal fee.
Discover the latest in stylish and durable children’s eyewear at our store. We offer a wide selection of fun and fashionable glasses for kids to try on, making it easy to find the perfect pair. With so many choices available, children and teens can mix and match their looks to suit their mood.
Schedule an eye exam to ensure the best fit for your child or teenager. Once they have selected their favorite pair, our team will make all the necessary adjustments for a comfortable and secure fit. And in case of any mishaps, rest assured that we can always restore the glasses to their original condition.
Consider exploring the option of contact lenses for your child as an alternative to glasses. Opting for both glasses and contact lenses can provide added flexibility. Contact lenses can boost confidence in children and teens, and are also practical for sports and other activities.