Regular eye tests, also called sight tests, are important for checking your vision and looking after your eye health.

It can be easy to neglect your eyes because they often do not hurt when there is a problem. An eye test does not only check whether you need glasses or a change to your prescription. It is also an important eye health check.

How often should I have an eye test?

You should usually have an eye test every 2 years, or more often if your optometrist or healthcare professional advises this.

Many people in Wales are eligible for free NHS eye tests. This includes children under 16 and young people under 19 in full-time education.

Read about optometry services in Wales Check help with NHS eye care costs

Get urgent help if your sight changes suddenly

Contact an optometrist, your GP practice, NHS 111 Wales or urgent eye care services if you notice a sudden change in your vision, new eye pain, a new loss of vision, flashes, floaters, or an eye injury.

If you have a serious eye injury or sudden sight loss and need emergency help, call 999.

Eye care services in Wales

NHS Wales eye care services can help if you are concerned about your eyesight, or the sight of a friend or relative. Local optometry practices can also tell you which NHS eye care services they provide.

Find eye care information on NHS 111 Wales Visit Eye Care Wales
Why regular eye tests are important

Having an eye test can help find out whether you need new glasses or a change of prescription. It can also help detect early signs of eye conditions before you notice symptoms.

Many eye conditions can be treated more effectively if they are found early.

Who may be more at risk of eye disease?

Some people are more at risk of eye disease. It is particularly important to have regular eye tests if you:

  • are older than 60
  • have a family history of eye disease
  • have diabetes
  • have glaucoma, or have been told you are at risk of glaucoma
  • are over 40 and have a parent, brother, sister or child with glaucoma
  • are from an African-Caribbean community, as there may be a greater risk of glaucoma
  • are from a South Asian or African-Caribbean community, as there may be a greater risk of type 2 diabetes and diabetic retinopathy
  • have a learning disability
  • have sight in one eye only
Children’s eyesight

Children often do not complain about their sight, but they may show signs that they are not seeing clearly.

Signs to look out for include:

  • sitting very close to the TV
  • holding objects very close to their face
  • blinking a lot
  • rubbing their eyes
  • one eye turning in or out
  • a white reflection in your child’s pupil

Routine eye checks are offered to newborn babies and young children, but you should take your child to an optometrist if you are worried about their sight at any age.

Children do not need to be able to read letters to have their eyes examined.

Read NHS 111 Wales eye tests for children
Stop smoking to protect your eyes

If you smoke, you are more likely to develop serious eye conditions such as age-related macular degeneration and cataracts than someone who does not smoke.

Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, including your eye health.

Get help to stop smoking in Wales
Protect your eyes from the sun

Getting out in the sun can be good for your general health, but it is important to protect your eyes.

Never look directly at the sun, including during an eclipse. This can cause permanent damage to your eyesight and may lead to blindness.

Wearing sunglasses can help protect your eyes from ultraviolet, or UV, rays. Choose sunglasses that carry the CE mark or British Standard BS EN ISO 12312-1:2013, as these offer a safe level of UV protection.

Read more from the College of Optometrists