THE IMPORTANCE OF ANNUAL EYE EXAMS

Comprehensive eye health and vision exams are essential to ensure clear, comfortable vision and healthy eyes.  This type of exam allows us to evaluate both internal and external structures of the eye, and can lead to early detection of disease. 

 
Ocular diseases rarely cause any form of pain.  Many conditions only give rise to symptoms in advanced stages when it becomes difficult, or even impossible to treat.  For this reason, many of these conditions are only able to be detected through a comprehensive eye examination, which includes dilation.

In addition, visual changes or deterioration is typically such a slow and gradual process that people are unaware the changes are taking place.  Our brain will often compensate for weaknesses and one eye is often able to mask changes occurring in the other.

Furthermore, optometrists are often able to detect the presence of systemic conditions that have not yet been identified.  For instance, diabetes, high cholesterol and tumors can manifest changes in the eyes and are often first identified through an eye exam.  Should these be uncovered during an exam, we are then able to make an appropriate referral.

There are many systemic conditions that can cause visual or structural changes and disorders.  It is essential to communicate with your optometrist all conditions that you have been diagnosed with, no matter how insignificant you may think they are. 

It is equally important to share all medications and supplements you are taking, as these too can cause visual and structural changes that need to be monitored for.