Research commissioned by Specsavers found that while 91% of Australian adults have experienced a problem with their eyes, one in five people wouldn't seek medical assistance for it.

However, early detection of most eye conditions can prevent vision loss and blindness.

One reason for not seeking medical assistance for an eye problem was the perceived cost of an appointment.

However, it is possible to book a bulk-billed eye health check with a local optometrist to check that the problem isn't a sign of a more serious issue and to address the problem.

There is no out of pocket cost for the patient.

Common eye problems that an optometrist can treat include: Conjunctivitis, dry eyes, teary or watery eyes, itchy eyes, red eyes, problems seeing things in the distance or up close, uncomfortable eyes, gritty eyes and cloudy vision.

In another step to aid early detection of serious eye problems, Specsavers Nowra Central recently introduced hospital-grade diagnostic imaging technology, OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography), which enables its optometrists to obtain more detailed information about the eye.