Looking After Your Eyes: Eye Health
Finding Eye Care in Herefordshire
There are several ways to access eye care in the county:
High Street Opticians
Most opticians in Herefordshire offer NHS-funded eye tests and urgent care for minor eye issues. Some can refer you directly to hospital services if needed. Some local options include:
- Specsavers (Hereford, Ledbury)
- Scrivens (Hereford)
- BBR Optometry (Hereford)
- Watkins Opticians (Leominster)
You can find more local NHS eye test providers here:
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/opticians/
Minor Eye Conditions Services (MECS)
Some local opticians offer MECS, an NHS service for treating problems like red or itchy eyes, or something stuck in the eye. You can use this service without a GP referral.
GPs and Pharmacies
For non-urgent concerns or advice on managing symptoms like dry or sore eyes, your GP or pharmacist can help.
Hospital Eye Services
Serious or ongoing problems may need referral to Hereford County Hospital’s Ophthalmology Department. In emergency cases, like sudden vision loss, you should attend A&E immediately.
You can find more information about the Hereford County Hospital Opthamology department here:
Looking After Your Vision Day to Day
Stop Smoking
Smoking can double your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD)—the UK’s leading cause of sight loss. In fact, the link between smoking and AMD is as strong as the link between smoking and lung cancer. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your eye health. Your GP can support you with local stop-smoking services.
Eat Healthily and Maintain a Healthy Weight
A diet low in saturated fats but rich in green leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli can support eye health. Maintaining a healthy weight helps lower your risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and other conditions that can affect your vision. Supplements can support, but they’re no substitute for a healthy, balanced diet.
Protect Your Eyes in the Sun
UV rays can damage your eyes and increase your risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Always wear sunglasses, prescription glasses, or contact lenses that block UVA and UVB rays. Look for the CE mark or British Standard BS EN ISO 12312-1 when buying sunglasses.
Stay Safe During DIY and Sport
DIY accidents cause thousands of eye injuries each year. Always wear appropriate safety glasses to protect against flying debris. Sports—especially racquet-based ones—can also pose a risk, so consider protective sports goggles to prevent serious injury.
If would like to share your experiences of local services and support with us call the team on 01432 277044 or go online.
