A PENSIONER went to his optician for a routine eye examination only to be immediately transferred to his GP and then hospital after it emerged he had a mini-stroke.

William Eagling, from Acklam, Middlesbrough went to Stokeld and Stephens Opticians in nearby Marton after noticing some occasional loss of vision in his right eye.

But optometrist Robert Stokeld diagnosed a condition called Amaurosis Fugax, temporary loss of vision caused by a mini-stroke, and urgently referred him for medical attention.

Mr Stockeld explained that Amaurosis Fugax is a temporary loss of vision in one eye caused by a lack of blood flow to the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.

If untreated it can cause nervous system symptoms, including weakness and speech problems. It is also a sign of an increased risk for a full-blown stroke, which would result in permanent vision loss or loss of other functions and is life-threatening.

Tests at hospital discovered that Mr Eagling, who is in his mid-70s, had a blocked carotid artery in his neck, which put him at serious risk of a stroke or worse.

He underwent urgent surgery to remove the blockage and has since made a full recovery.

Mr Eagling said: “The experience has taught me that under no circumstances should you neglect your routine eye appointment. Thanks to the intuition, skill and knowledge of my optometrist I was referred for treatment before any serious complications arose.

"The recovery process has been lengthy but I am so grateful to Stokeld and Stephens for their prompt attention and what turned out to be a lifesaving service.”

Mr Stokeld said: “While urgent referrals are not an everyday occurrence, Mr Eagling’s experience just goes to show how important regular eye exams are to monitor not just your vision but also your overall health.

"We would like to thank the NHS consultants, doctors and nurses staff involved with the case who were able to deal with the problem so quickly and skilfully.

"We are getting behind National Eye Health Week to urge everyone to make eye exams part of their routine, just as you would visit the dentist. They are an essential health check and can even save lives.”

Mr Eagling agreed to share his story as part of National Eye Health Week, a national campaign to promote the importance of eye health and eye exams.

More information on National Eye Health Week is available at www.visionmatters.org.uk.