Join the Fight for Sight

Sep 09, 2014 in Eye Care

Join the Fight for Sight

On Sunday, September 14 dozens of cyclists will be taking up the challenge of 16k and 50k routes, to raise funds for the vision charity Fight for Sight. The event Bike for Sight will be held in Warwickshire for the very first time. Eminent Irish paracyclist Damien Vereker will also be participating and lending his celebrity support to the event. The bike route will start at Kenilworth Sixth Form College and the event will be flagged off at 9 a.m. The fundraiser will enable the charity to conduct research on various eye-related conditions, including corneal dystrophy. Prior registration is required for the event. Registration details can be found on www.fightforsight.org.uk

What is Corneal Dystrophy?

While relatively rare amongst eye conditions, corneal dystrophy is a genetic condition characterised by accumulation of extraneous matter in the cornea. This may include lipids and cholesterol crystals. The condition usually manifests in the early years of life and progresses gradually, eventually leading to sight loss – if left untreated. In the initial stages, eye drops and ointments may be prescribed, to ease the symptoms. Corneal transplant is the long-term solution and recent surgical improvements have increased the success rate for this treatment. Corneal Dystrophy a genetic condition, so if it’s discovered in a person, it is important that the immediate family members should be tested to overrule risk.

Loss of Vision

Corneal dystrophy is a rare condition, accounting for about 0.5% (according to RNIB) of all the registered blind or partially sighted persons in the UK. However, it is a fact that almost 2 million people in the UK are living with some level of vision loss. RNIB predicts that by 2020, this number would be 2.25 million and by 2050, nearly 4 million Britons will suffer from sight loss. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in adults, while glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic retinopathy are some of the other common causes. AMD affects the macula, the tiny part of the retina behind the eye, which leads to distorted or blurred central vision. While it’s not usually painful, it can lead to a blind patch in the centre of your vision.

Importance of an Eye Test

Many eye-related problems can be prevented or alleviated by early detection and diagnosis. The easiest way to do that is by taking an eye exam regularly. At an eye examination, your optometrist will check your eyesight and also test the overall health of your eyes. Early signs of AMD, cataracts and glaucoma can all be detected by the eye examination. At Leightons Opticians, we offer a comprehensive eye examination, which takes into account your personal and eye health history as well as your lifestyle. Based on the results of the eye examination, our optometrist will recommend the best course of action – either corrective measures such as contact lenses or prescription glasses, or preventive eye care practices such as eye protection by using sunglasses and eye drops to counter dry eyes. At your Leightons branch, you can find a wide range of stylish frames and designer sunglasses to choose from. So book an eye examination at Leightons Opticians and let us take care of your eyes. Remember, you may also eligible for a free NHS eye examination.