Sheffield grandmother has potentially life-saving surgery after Specsavers visit

Marie Jubb, 79, visited her local Specsavers in Firth Park before Christmas with complaints that her eye did not feel quite right and was promptly checked by optometrist Phil Banton.

Usually, sight loss only lasts for a few seconds or minutes and is most commonly caused by a blockage in the carotid artery which can be extremely serious, putting the patient at risk of a stroke.

Mrs Jubb underwent a series of tests at hospital and was diagnosed with a blocked carotid artery, which could prove fatal if left untreated.

After being rushed to surgery the next day, the block was removed by specialists.

Mrs Jubb said: "I personally can’t thank Phil at Specsavers enough. I visited Specsavers, Firth Park late last year as I felt something wasn’t quite right. Phil immediately referred me to hospital.

"It’s all sorted now and I’m especially pleased I did not delay my trip," she continued.

"I’d encourage anyone who experiences a change in their sight to visit for a check-up straight away."

Mr Banton said: "We’re really pleased to hear that treatment has gone well for Mrs Jubb and the outcome has been extremely positive.

"It goes to show just how important it is to have regular eye examinations. We recommend having your eyes tested at least every two years unless you have concerns about your sight, in which case it is advisable to book an appointment even sooner."

Specsavers says that it offers a range of technology to spot eye conditions and other underlying problems, which can help detect other treatable eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration sooner.

The scan, which only takes a few seconds, allows an optician to look deeper into the eyes than ever before and it can help to detect glaucoma up to four years in advance.

Given that nearly half of all sight loss is preventable, conditions can be managed before they get worse and can help prevent potential sight loss if caught early, said the company.