Advice to Redditch residents in National Eye Health Week

Dr Alex Silvester, chief medical officer at SpaMedica, said: “The message for Redditch residents this National Eye Health Week is simple: don’t wait for problems.

"If you act early – through diet, lifestyle, protecting your eyes in colder weather and regular eye tests – you can keep your vision clearer for longer."

He explained that dry eyes are a frequent complaint, particularly in winter.

Dr Silvester said: "They often worsen in winter with central heating, lower humidity and cold winds.

"Using lubricating drops, limiting time in heated rooms and keeping well hydrated all help."

Some people also experience watery eyes outdoors in the cold, which is usually the eyes’ protective response.

"If in doubt, a visit to your local optician is always a good idea," he said. "Sunglasses in winter sun and using a humidifier indoors can both help too.”

He also addressed concerns about screens making vision worse as people get older and recommended the 20-20-20 rule – looking 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes – to ease discomfort.

And eating a balanced diet rich in leafy greens, colourful vegetables, oily fish, and nuts will support long-term eye health.

He added: “Even if you think your sight is fine, get checked every two years as per NHS guidance and more frequently if you have other health conditions that may affect vision.

"AMD and glaucoma often progress silently until vision is lost, but early detection makes treatment far more effective.”