Question -  I don’t seem to be having any problems why should I have my eyes examined?

 Answer – There is much more to a professional examination by an optometrist than simply testing your sight.  A thorough eye examination can detect many ocular and systemic diseases and disorders long before there are any obvious symptoms.  For instance, the eye disease glaucoma usually does not cause any noticeable symptoms until very late in the disease process.  The only way to detect glaucoma early is to have your intraocular pressure tested by your optometrist.  

TOP TEN REASONS TO HAVE AN EYE EXAMINATION

Regular assessment of your ocular health and visual system is an important part of your overall health care strategy.

1) Eye Disease:

Many eye diseases have no symptoms (such as glaucoma).  Serious vision loss can be averted with a comprehensive eye examination to detect early changes related to glaucoma and retinal conditions long before any irreversible permanent damage has occurred. 

1. 2) Family History of Ocular Disease or Abnormalities:

Many eye conditions have a genetic link. (e.g. Glaucoma, Retinitis Pigmentosa)

1. 3) Systemic Disease Affects the Eye:

Hypertension, Diabetes, and other disease processes often affect the visual system.

1. 4) Prevention is Easier Than a Cure:

Eye disease can cause permanent damage.  This can be prevented in many conditions if detected in earlier stages.

1. 5) Environmental Concerns:

Computer VDT use, UV exposure, etc. all play a role in affecting the eye, and its visual functioning.

1. 6) Prescription Drugs Can Affect Your Eyes:

Many drugs including steroids, anti-cholesterols, diuretics, anti-malarial, arthritic medication, along with some antibiotics can cause ocular side effects.

1. 7) Vision Is Our Most Important Learning Sense:

It is estimated that 80% of all learning is through the vision system.  Children should present for their first eye examination before the age of four to ensure proper ocular development.  We recommend any child who is ‘visually’ at risk (family history of turned eyes, high prescriptions, lazy eyes, etc., plus pre-mature babies) be tested before the age of two.

1. 8) Contact Lens Wearers:

Contact lens wear can cause changes to the cornea, and lids.  Regular inspection for adverse ocular health issues is necessary.

9) Previous Surgical Patients:

Patients who have had cataract, retinal, or laser corrective procedures (LASIK) require close monitoring of their eyes for development of complications arising from the surgically altered tissue.

1. 10) Maintenance of Clear, Comfortable, and Efficient Vision:

The human eye is a finely tuned structure that requires expert evaluation on a regular basis to allow for optimum functioning of this wonderful gift of sight.