When Should You Go for an Eye Exam?
Your vision plays a strong role in keeping you safe and absorbing information about the world around you. When something starts to affect it, several areas of your life may suffer. From driving through to working effectively, having good vision is essential for a lot of reasons. Even if you're not currently experiencing symptoms of visual decline, it's useful to know when you should go for an eye exam.
Attend Every Two Years
Generally, optometrists recommend that adults go for eye exams every two years. However, you may need to attend appointments more frequently if you have an underlying condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure. This is because diabetes can cause swelling in your macula, which then affects how sharp your vision is. Similarly, continued high blood pressure can damage the vessels serving your eyes. Otherwise, attending every two years as a healthy person ensures you catch problems in their earlier stages. It gives your optometrist the best chance of issuing prescription eyewear that supports your eyesight.
When You Notice a Problem
If you notice issues with your eyesight in between your bi-annual appointments, don't delay seeing an optometrist. Common issues you could notice include:
- Difficulty focusing on objects that are far away
- Difficulty reading or seeing objects that are up close
- Blurred vision
- Struggling with your central vision
- A reduction in your peripheral vision
- Headaches after reading or sitting at a computer when you don't usually experience them
At your eye exam, your optometrist can perform a range of tests that may identify what's happening with your vision. From there, they'll either offer prescription eyewear or refer you for further investigations.
Before Your Child Starts School
Before your child starts their formal education, you should take them for an eye test. Visual problems that go unresolved during early childhood years can make it difficult for your child to concentrate. This may manifest itself in them seeming disinterested at school or refusing to engage in certain activities. By identifying problems with their eyesight early on, you make it easier for them to engage with their education. You'll also make it easier for the teaching staff at their school to support them.
Eye exams are usually minimally invasive and can tell you a lot about your vision. At your next appointment, ask your optometrist when they feel you should attend your next one. Depending on your age and health, they may suggest a higher frequency than your current attendance.