World Diabetes Day, observed annually on 14 November, shines a light on diabetes' impact on millions globally. Beyond managing blood sugar levels, the disease poses significant risks to eye health, particularly conditions like diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts.
The Role of Eye Screenings in Detecting Diabetes
Comprehensive eye exams play a crucial role in detecting diabetes early. By examining changes in blood vessels and nerves at the back of the eye, optometrists can identify signs of diabetes before other symptoms emerge. These screenings provide invaluable insight into overall health, offering a window into the state of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues.
Diabetes and Eye Health Risks
- Diabetic Retinopathy: A leading cause of blindness, this condition occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina. Early detection and management through regular screenings are essential to slow its progression.
- Glaucoma: People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop glaucoma, a condition where increased pressure in the eye damages the optic nerve. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent vision loss.
- Cataracts: Diabetes accelerates the formation of cataracts, leading to clouded vision. Cataracts can develop earlier in people with diabetes and progress more rapidly. Surgical interventions are effective but rely on timely identification.
St John’s Commitment to Vision Preservation
At St John, we recognise the importance of accessible, quality eye care. Our eye care centres provide comprehensive screenings, which not only detect vision issues but also uncover underlying health conditions like diabetes. We proudly serve communities across South Africa, ensuring equitable access to vital eye health services.
Why Regular Eye Tests Matter
Routine eye exams do more than detect diabetes. They help identify a range of conditions early, empowering individuals to seek timely interventions. At St John, we’re dedicated to preserving vision and improving quality of life in every community we serve.
Operating Hours
Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 16:00.
Appointments
Walk-ins are accepted, although appointments are given priority.
Payments
Eye test and spectacles can be paid for via cash, card or EFT.
What to expect during an eye test
Expect comprehensive checks of your visual and ocular health, including assessments for vision clarity, eye pressure, and overall eye health.
How long will an eye test take
An eye test typically takes approximately 20 minutes.
How often should we have our eyes tested
Adults should have their eyes tested every 18 to 24 months to ensure early detection and management of vision changes and eye conditions.
Elderly adults (65 and older) should have annual eye exams due to the higher risk of age-related eye diseases such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts.
Children should have their eyes tested annually to monitor their visual development, detect refractive errors, and address any issues that may impact their learning and development. Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining optimal eye health and catching potential problems early on.
Will a St John eye test cover specific conditions?
Yes, we offer a range of tests for specific eye conditions as part of our comprehensive eye examinations. One of the key tests we perform is tonometry, which measures the pressure inside your eyes to check for glaucoma, a condition that can lead to vision loss if untreated.
In addition to tonometry, we also provide the following:
- Retinal Examinations: Assessing the back of the eye for signs of retinal disease and other conditions like macular degeneration.
- Visual Field Testing: Evaluating your peripheral vision to detect issues that might affect your ability to see side-to-side.
- Refraction Assessments: Determining the exact prescription needed for glasses or contact lenses to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
- Slit-Lamp Examinations: A detailed inspection of the anterior (front) segment of your eye, including the cornea, iris, and lens, to identify abnormalities.
- Diabetic Eye Exams: Special evaluations for individuals with diabetes to detect and monitor diabetic retinopathy and other diabetes-related eye conditions.
Our goal is to ensure a thorough evaluation of your eye health, enabling early detection and management of any potential issues.
What types of lenses are available at St John Eye Care Centers?
We offer a wide range of lenses to suit various vision needs and preferences. Our selection includes:
- Single Vision Lenses: Ideal for individuals who need correction for one field of vision, either distance or near.
- Bifocal Lenses: Designed for those who require correction for both distance and near vision, with a distinct line separating the two fields.
- Multifocal Lenses: Also known as progressive lenses, these provide seamless transition between multiple fields of vision (distance, intermediate, and near) without visible lines.
Additionally, we offer various add-ons to enhance your lens performance:
- Blue Light Blocking: Reduces eye strain and improves comfort by filtering out harmful blue light from digital screens.
- Anti-Reflective Coating (ARC): Minimizes reflections and glare, enhancing visual clarity and comfort, especially in low-light conditions.
- Photochromic Lenses: Automatically adjust to changing light conditions, darkening in bright sunlight and clearing up indoors.
How long does it take to get my new spectacles?
It typically takes approximately 10 working days to receive your new glasses.
How much does a new pair of glasses cost?
Single Vision Spectacles: from R790
Bifocal Spectacles: fromR1335
Multifocal Spectacles: from R2400
Various add-ons, such as blue block, anti-reflex coating (ARC), and photochromic lenses, are available at an additional cost
Lay-bye your spectacles
We offer a flexible payment plan that allows patients to pay for their spectacles in instalments over three months. This plan makes it easier to manage the cost. However, please note that spectacles will be ordered only after the final payment is received
Warranty
All frames come with a 6-month warranty that covers any manufacturing defects. This warranty ensures that you can have peace of mind knowing that if there are any issues with the frame’s craftsmanship within the first six months of purchase, we will repair or replace them at no additional cost. Please note that the warranty does not cover accidental damage, normal wear and tear, or misuse.