Why You Should Schedule (and Keep) Your Yearly Eye Health Exam

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Clear Vision Ahead: 5 Important Reasons to Schedule (and keep) Your Yearly Eye Health Exam

By Dr. Cameron Steflik

Are you finding yourself squinting at road signs or holding your smartphone at arm’s length just to read a text message? Are your eyes watering persistently, or do you have a sensation of grit in your eyes or strain at the end of a long work day? Perhaps you have a family history of Macular Degeneration or Glaucoma. 

Eye health and proper care and correction is vital to experiencing life to the fullest. 

Read on to learn five compelling reasons why prioritizing your yearly eye health exam with an experienced expert team is essential:

  • 1.) Changes in Vision: One of the most obvious signs that you need an eye exam is a noticeable change in your vision. Whether you’re experiencing blurred vision, difficulty seeing objects up close or at a distance, or frequent headaches or eye strain, these could be indicators of refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. An eye exam will help determine the cause of these changes and whether corrective lenses are needed for you.
  • 2.) Eye Health Screening: Your eyes are not only the windows to your soul but also to your overall health. An eye exam can detect early signs of various eye diseases and conditions, including glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. Detecting these conditions early can prevent vision loss and potentially save your sight.
  • 3.) Digital Eye Strain: In today’s digital age, many of us spend a significant amount of time staring at screens, whether it’s a computer, smartphone, or tablet. Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, characterized by symptoms such as eye fatigue, dryness, blurred vision, and headaches. An eye exam can help identify factors contributing to digital eye strain and provide recommendations to alleviate discomfort, such as specialized computer glasses or ergonomic adjustments.
  • 4.) Eye Coordination and Focus: Your eyes are incredibly complex organs that work together seamlessly to provide clear vision. However, issues with eye coordination and focus can arise, especially in children. An eye exam can assess binocular vision, depth perception, and eye teaming skills, which are essential for activities such as reading, sports, and driving. Early detection of these issues can prevent learning difficulties and improve overall visual performance.
  • 5.) Systemic Health Conditions: Believe it or not, your eyes can provide valuable insights into your overall health. During an eye exam, your eye doctor may detect signs of systemic health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, autoimmune diseases, and certain cancers. For example, diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina and can lead to vision loss if left untreated. By monitoring changes in the retina, your eye doctor can help manage your diabetes and prevent vision-threatening complications.

Scheduling regular eye health exams is crucial for maintaining optimal eye health and overall well-being. Whether you’re experiencing changes in vision, or simply due for a routine check-up, don’t delay in prioritizing your eye health. 

Your Team at Envision takes great pride in providing the best care in your eye health journey, from start to finish.