Specialist care · Braham OpticiansNHS urgent eyecare
Prompt help for recently occurring minor eye problems.
The Minor Eye Conditions Service (MECS) is an NHS service providing assessment and treatment for recently occurring minor eye problems. Appointments are delivered by accredited optometrists.
You can self-refer without seeing your GP. Call the practice before travelling so the team can ask about your symptoms and arrange the most appropriate appointment.
Symptoms MECS can assess
- Red or irritated eyes and eyelids
- Dry, gritty, uncomfortable or watery eyes
- Recent discharge, flashes or floaters
- Eye pain or ingrowing eyelashes
- A foreign body in the eye
- A recent or sudden change in vision
How to arrange an appointment
MECS is available to people of all ages, although anyone under 16 must attend with an adult. Telephone the practice first rather than visiting without an appointment. Depending on your symptoms, you may be seen within 24 hours or within a few working days.
When to seek emergency help
Go to A&E or call 999 if you suddenly cannot see, have severe sudden eye pain, a strong chemical has entered the eye, the eye has been pierced, or an eye injury has caused changes to your sight. If you are unsure what to do, contact NHS 111.