As we go about our daily lives, it’s easy to overlook the importance of routine eye exams. However, regular eye exams are crucial to maintaining good eye health and catching potential eye problems before they become serious. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of routine eye exams and how often you should see an eye doctor.
Why are routine eye exams important?
Routine eye exams are important for several reasons. First, they allow your eye doctor to check for changes in your vision and prescription, which can affect your quality of life. Second, eye exams can detect early signs of eye diseases, such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. If left untreated, these conditions can cause permanent vision loss. Finally, routine eye exams can also reveal underlying health issues, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, which can affect your eyesight.
How often should you get your eyes checked?
The frequency of your eye exams will depend on several factors, including your age, overall health, and any pre-existing eye conditions you may have. As a general guideline, the American Optometric Association recommends the following:
- Infants and toddlers should have their first pediatric eye exam at 6 months of age.
- Children should have an eye exam at age 3, and again before starting kindergarten.
- During their school years, children should see an eye doctor every two years if they don’t need corrective lenses. If they wear glasses or contact lenses, they should have an eye exam once a year or as recommended by their eye doctor.
- Adults should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once every two years, or more frequently if recommended by their eye doctor.
- Individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease should have a comprehensive eye exam every year.
- Adults over age 60 should have a comprehensive eye exam annually.
It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and your eye doctor may recommend a different exam schedule based on your individual needs.
What can you expect during an eye exam?
During a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor will evaluate several aspects of your vision and eye health. This may include:
- Reviewing your medical history and any medications you’re currently taking
- Assessing your visual acuity and refractive error
- Testing your eye’s ability to focus and track objects
- Checking your eye’s peripheral vision and depth perception
- Examining your eye’s internal structures using special instruments, such as a slit lamp
- Checking your eye pressure to screen for glaucoma
Your eye doctor may also use eye drops to dilate your pupils so they can get a better view of your eye’s internal structures.
In conclusion, routine eye exams are a vital part of maintaining good eye health and catching potential eye problems early. If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, or if you have concerns about your vision or eye health, schedule an appointment with our eye doctor in Andalusia today.
