A retiree who feared she was losing her sight has praised the staff at her opticians for their quick response.
Karen Rimmer, 69, from Ripon, noticed a smudge across her vision one Saturday morning.
As the day went on, her vision became increasingly blurry, her iris turned red, and she felt a build-up of pressure in her left eye.
Concerned about her deteriorating sight and aware that her GP surgery was closed at the weekend, she decided to visit Specsavers in Ripon.
Specsavers optometrist director Katherine Friis and Karen Rimmer (Image: Specsavers)
The optometrist director at the store, Katherine Friis, quickly identified a significant posterior eye bleed, a condition that could have caused permanent vision loss if left untreated.
Ms Friis promptly referred her to York Hospital's eye clinic for treatment.
At the hospital, Ms Rimmer underwent a vitrectomy under local anaesthesia, which lasted an hour.
Now on the road to recovery, her vision continues to improve with regular check-ups from a specialist.
Ms Rimmer said: "I was extremely concerned when I first noticed the issue and feared I might lose my sight.
"At one point during surgery, I couldn't even see the nurse's hand, only sense it - I was effectively blind.
"It was a terrifying thought that I might lose my sight completely.
"But thanks to Katherine's swift action, I received the urgent care I needed.
"She was incredible - so sensitive and reassuring when I was distressed.
"She knew exactly what needed to be done and arranged my referral without delay - I can't thank her enough."
Now recovering, Ms Rimmer is urging others to take sudden changes in vision seriously and to visit their optician at the first sign of trouble.
She said: "Our eyesight is one of our most precious senses.
"If you notice any sudden changes, don't waste time in A&E or waiting for a GP appointment - go straight to Specsavers.
"They have the expertise to see to you properly and get you the care you need."
Ms Friis said: "At Specsavers, we are committed to providing exceptional eyecare for everyone in our community.
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"When Karen visited us, we acted quickly to ensure she received the necessary treatment without delay."
Specsavers Ripon offers NHS-funded health appointments, known as MECS, which allows highly qualified optometrists to assess eye concerns promptly and refer customers to the best course of action.
For more details on the full range of eye health and hearing care services available visit the Specsavers website or call 01765 694777.