A LUDLOW optician has helped to save the sight of a customer by diagnosing an eye condition in time to prevent permanent damage.

David Blake, 63, from Bucknell, visited Specsavers on Bull Ring in November last year after he noticed floaters appearing in his vision. Optometrist, Sophie Wragg carried out the eye test which helped diagnose a retinal detachment, a condition which if left untreated can ultimately result in a loss of vision.

With the help of an OCT (optical coherence tomography) scan, Sophie could see ‘tobacco dust’ (pigmented cells) and a small haemorrhage within the vitreous in Mr Blake's eye.

These signs suggested David had suffered a retinal detachment, so Sophie referred him to the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, where the diagnosis was confirmed, and David received laser treatment to save the sight in his eye.

"The floaters, lots of black shapes and dots appeared pretty suddenly," said Mr Blake. "I hadn’t been to Specsavers Ludlow before, but when the floaters didn’t disappear after a couple of days, I decided to make an appointment.

"After explaining the problem, I was seen virtually straight away. Sophie and a colleague examined my eyes and told me we needed to do something quickly.

"Sophie booked the next available appointment for me at RSH, where it was confirmed I had a retinal detachment, and I was given laser treatment, which repaired the tear.

‘The care and service I was offered was fantastic. I was not a customer before and really had visited more in hope than expectation. I’m sure I wouldn’t have been able to sort this out without the prompt and excellent service I received at Specsavers Ludlow"

"Mr Blake had driven to the appointment which meant I couldn’t dilate his pupil," said Sophie. "However, I was fortunate enough to see the retinal tear through his undilated pupil. The images from the OCT confirmed my suspicions and I knew he needed to be seen at hospital.

"His case demonstrates how important it is to get your eyes checked if you notice any changes. The earlier we can diagnose a problem, the better the chance of a successful outcome."