Eye Tests

Eye Tests


Why get an eye test

An eye test is not just about finding out if you need glasses or contact lenses. It is also a vital health check for your eyes and your general wellbeing.


50% +

of sight loss is preventable


So getting your eyes tested can help prevent, or limit, the damage caused by certain eye conditions. For more information on common eye conditions click here.


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Regular eye examinations are important because:

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Having your vision corrected can improve the quality of day-to-day life.

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They will help detect certain eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration, which could lead to sight loss.

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Identifying any issues with eyesight early can slow down progression, and in the case of children help set them up for success. We recommend children have eye tests from the age of three years old.

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We are also able to look out for signs of broader health conditions with symptoms that affect the eyes, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

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Eye Tests


What to expect



Our eye tests usually last around 30 minutes. During the test we carry out a regular routine of checks and based on the results of these tailor our test to suit your individual needs.

Our equipment includes a digital retinal camera which allows us to take photographs of the inside of your eyes so even small abnormalities can be detected, recorded and compared in future checks. We also have an OCT, otherwise known as Ocular Coherence Tomography, which is an advanced eye scan for people of all ages. In a similar way to ultrasound, OCT uses light rather than sound waves to illustrate the different layers that make up the back of the eye, allowing us to rapidly diagnose a number of common eye conditions e.g., Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma and Diabetes.

Once the test is complete the optician will explain the results of your test, and make any recommendations based on these.

Your prescription can be dispensed wherever you choose. However, prescribing and dispensing of glasses are closely linked, so it is best to have your glasses dispensed where you have your eyes examined.

Eye Tests


Did you know?

The NHS cover the cost of a sight test for a wide range of people including children aged 16 and under, 16–18-year-olds in full time education and those over 60 amongst others. For a full list of those eligible click here.

Emergency appointments for minor eye conditions are available. This is known as NI PEARS (Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service)

Learn more about NI PEARS Picture of a patient undergoing an eye test

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Locations:

Ballycastle

41 Ann St, Ballycastle, BT54 6AA
Call us on 028 2076 2431

Portrush

10 Main St, Portrush, BT56 8BL
Call us on 028 7082 3677

Opening Hours:

Ballycastle

Monday - Saturday: 9:00 - 17:30
Alternate Wednesday: Closed
Sunday : Closed


Portrush

Monday - Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 9:00 - 17:30
Alternate Saturday: Closed
Sunday : Closed

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