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Legal highs could damage eyesight

A local optician is warning of the risks to eyesight arising from the use of “Poppers” – a legal high that is inhaled for their euphoric effects.

A recent British Medical Journal case report highlighted an incident where a man suffered vision impairment caused by the use of poppers which contain a group of chemicals called alkyl nitrites. Poppers are not controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act and are available from a range of over the counter sources.

Lesley Cree is a qualified optometrist and runs her own optician’s practice in Radcliffe on Trent, commenting said: “Poppers contain strong chemicals and there is increasing evidence that they are harmful to our eyes. This is a very sensitive organ and the use of poppers can cause temporary and permanent eyesight damage, particularly loss of central vision. Damage can occur even from a single use of poppers so we are keen to make users aware of the potential risk.”

Taking poppers is particularly dangerous for anyone with glaucoma, heart problems or anaemia and anyone with concerns about their vision after taking poppers should visit their local optometrist for further advice.