An optometrist is an eye doctor qualified to examine, diagnose, and treat eye diseases and conditions. This highly qualified provider is trained in eye examinations to determine the need for and prescription for glasses and contact lenses. How do you know when it is time to see an optometrist near you? In this blog, we will discuss the signs that indicate you need an eye exam.
#1 You Have Changes in Your Vision
If you notice blurry or distorted vision, have difficulty seeing at night, or see sudden differences in your ability to focus, you may have eye health problems. Flashes of light and dark spots or flecks (flashes and floaters) in your field of vision also are signs that you should make an appointment with your optometrist.
#2 You Have Frequent Headaches
Headaches can be caused by a variety of factors, including eye strain. If you find yourself experiencing frequent headaches, it is important to rule out any potential vision problems.
Your optometrist will perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine if your headaches may be related to uncorrected vision or other underlying eye conditions.
#3 You Experience Eye Pain or Discomfort
Feeling pain or discomfort in or around your eyes could be a sign of an eye infection, injury, or strain. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should see your optometrist as soon as possible. Sudden and severe eye pain which is unrelated to eye injury requires a trip to the nearest hospital ER for assessment.
#4 You Notice Changes in Your Eye Appearance
Pay attention to any changes in the appearance of your eyes. If you notice redness, swelling, discharge, or any other unusual symptoms, schedule an appointment with your optometrist. These changes could be signs of an underlying condition such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), allergies, or even a more serious condition such as glaucoma.
If you wear contact lenses, take notice of any changes in the appearance of your contacts or discomfort while wearing them. These could be signs of an irritation or infection which needs to be addressed.
In addition, regular check-ups with your optometrist will help them detect changes in the shape or color of your iris. These changes may indicate other health issues such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
#5 You Have Trouble Reading Road Signs or Print in a Book or Digital Device
Age-related presbyopia, astigmatism (vision distortion), nearsightedness, and farsightedness all require a trip to the optometrist. You need a complete medical and visual acuity examination to determine your need for corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) or state-of-the-art LASIK surgery.
LASIK is one of today’s most popular vision correction procedures. For qualified patients, LASIK reduces or completely eliminates the need to wear contact lenses or glasses.
#6 You Have a Family History of Eye Health Problems
These problems may include age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, crossed eye, astigmatism, and more. Some chronic diseases, which can run in families, may also impact your eye health and function. These problems include diabetes, high blood pressure, and others.
Be sure to discuss with your PCP when and how often you should see an eye doctor to keep ahead of any concerning changes in your eye health due to family history.
#7 It Has Been Two Years or More Since Your Last Eye Exam
Adults ages 18 to 60 should have a medical and visual acuity examination by an optometrist every two years. If you are over the age of 60, come see us at Miramar Eye Institute once a year.
We can help you stay ahead of problems due to aging and underlying health conditions. If you have a history of eye problems or wear glasses or contacts, you may need to visit more frequently.
Eye Exams with Your Optometrist in Miramar, FL
At Miramar Eye Institute, ophthalmologist Dr. Kenneth Karp and optometrist Dr. Lindsay Fuentes partner in eye health and wellness. Together, they deliver state-of-the-art eye examinations and treatments which help people see well and enjoy the world around them.
To learn more about our many services, or to arrange for your eye exam, please contact our office team at (954) 437-4316. You also can request a visit here. We will be happy to see you in our office soon.