Scheduling regular visits to the eye doctor is something everyone should do, whether or not they have perfect vision. Regular eye exams are essential for individuals of all ages. They do more than ensure you have a clear vision; they help maintain your eye and overall health. They also play a crucial preventative role.

Obtain an Updated Prescription

If you need corrective lenses, regular visits to the eye doctor will help ensure you have an updated prescription. As the eye shape and condition change with age, you will likely require prescription alterations. 

A new prescription will ensure your eyeglasses or contact lenses work effectively. Your eye doctor will check your eyes and monitor the changes to determine if you need a different lens type.

Early Detection of Eye Diseases

Most eye diseases do not present symptoms in the early stages. You can have a severe eye condition, such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy, without realizing it. Failing to detect and treat the conditions early can have severe consequences, including vision loss. Regular eye exams help detect eye issues early when they are easier to treat. The eye doctor can develop an effective treatment or management plan to prevent vision loss.

Monitoring Eye Changes 

The eyes are unique organs that experience changes over an individual’s lifetime. They are always under threat from several age-related eye conditions, and eyesight may weaken as you age. Some changes are a natural consequence of aging and may not harm eye health. 

However, some may indicate an underlying eye or health condition. During an eye exam, the doctor can identify changes affecting the individual’s quality of life. 

Checking Eye Symptoms

If you are experiencing any eye symptoms, you need an immediate checkup. Several changes in vision may need examination as soon as possible. The symptoms include eyestrain, frequent headaches, light sensitivity, blurry vision, loss of focus, infections, and floaters. The vision changes may be signs that you need new eyeglasses, but they can also indicate severe eye disease. Proper diagnosis is vital to get the right treatment.

Detecting Health Conditions

Eye exams can help detect severe health conditions. Many people discover they have underlying health problems during eye exams. Observing and evaluating the blood vessels in the retina can uncover health issues. 

During a comprehensive exam, the eye doctor can detect conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. The eye doctor can also detect some types of cancer. Eye tests may help identify the patient’s risk of Alzheimer’s. 

Eye discomfort can negatively impact your life. It can also increase your risk of losing sight. Eye specialists recommend eye exam schedules depending on the individual’s age and overall eye health. 

Annual eye exams can ensure children succeed in their education and other activities. Remember, vision screenings are not substitutes for eye exams. If you have a family history of any eye condition, the doctor will recommend frequent eye exams.

For more on regular eye checkups, visit Clarity Vision at our office in Smithfield, NC. Call (919) 737-7200 to schedule an appointment today.