Your vision is not something that you should take for granted. Many eye diseases and conditions do not cause symptoms, so it is always a wise idea to get examined by an eye doctor periodically. Even if you don’t have any symptoms of a disease, there are are many reasons to schedule an appointment.
Today, many shopping centers and malls have vision centers that offer eye exams by licensed optometrists. You can also find an optometrist by looking in the phone book or online directories.
You should get an eye exam at least once a year. If you are experiencing problems such as burning, stinging, blurriness, dryness, a loss of vision, regular headaches, itchy eyes or watery eyes, you should visit an optometrist immediately. You can prevent diseases and protect your vision by visiting a professional who will diagnose you and provide you with treatment.
Keep in mind that kids should get their first vision exam when they are six months old. They should get examined every two years afterward that because vision problems are common at this age. Children that are at risk for developing problems should get checked sooner. Frequent exams are necessary for children who have a family history of ocular conditions and diseases.
Adults who wear contact lenses or glasses need to get check-ups more often than people with normal vision, and people with high blood pressure, diabetes, and other disorders should also get examined more frequently. People who are older than 60 also need to get check-ups every year, and they should get examined for age-related conditions and problems like cataracts and macular degeneration.
It is worth noting that ophthalmologists are licensed to perform ocular surgery. Optometrists can perform minor surgical procedures and prescribe medications. Opticians can repair or adjust your eyeglasses and fit your contact lenses.
Before you make an appointment with a medical professional, find out if your health insurance will cover the exam. Discount cards are also available to people who don’t have health insurance. Bring your insurance card or discount card with you when you visit the doctor.
When you visit a doctor for an exam, make sure you are honest about any health conditions you have and your medical history. If you have high blood pressure, let the doctor know. Tell the doctor about the medications you take, and make sure you sleep before your appointment because fatigue can affect your vision. When you visit a doctor, bring your prescription contact lenses and eyeglasses with you.
A basic vision exam lasts between 30 minutes to an hour. You will have to fill out some paperwork before you see the doctor so make sure you arrive at the location 15 minutes early, especially if you are a new patient.
Your doctor will examine you and determine if your eyes are healthy. They will also determine what is causing your symptoms. Dozens of tests are available, depending on your needs. So, if you want to protect your vision and prevent various uncomfortable conditions, make sure you visit an eye doctor periodically.