Why You Should Schedule An Eye Exam

Posted on: 12 October 2020

Scheduling an eye exam with a licensed optometrist can help you preserve your vision for the long term. The examination is usually a quick and simple process that can be performed in a comfortable and pain-free manner using advanced technology. Here are some of the main reasons why you should schedule an eye exam with an optometrist.

Impaired Vision Diagnosis

Having impaired vision isn't always so obvious if it is minor, and the optometrist can perform a series of tests to determine the strength of each eye. Testing for visual impairment usually involves reading a series of numbers or letters that are shown in different sizes to gauge how well the eyes can see up-close and faraway images. Visual clarity can also be gauged with different types of lenses that are placed in front of each eye. As MayoClinic.com reports, the shapes of your eyes can also be examined to determine if any vision problems are caused by a misshaped curvature of the eyes (astigmatism). Once the examination is complete, your optometrist will know if you have a problem with your vision and will recommend any corrective measures. 

Eye Condition Diagnosis

In addition to impaired vision, the eye doctor can examine you for any specific eye conditions that you might have. Certain eye conditions can decrease vision and sometimes progress gradually, and your optometrist can offer treatments that may cure any condition that you may have or at least slow its progress to preserve your vision for longer. Testing for eye conditions may include emitting puffs of air into each eye to measure eye pressure or dilating the eyes to conduct a more detailed examination of the backs of the eyes. Testing during an eye exam can be done to diagnose and look for the causes of conditions like:

  • Macular degeneration
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Dry eyes
  • Glaucoma
  • Cataracts

Eyeglass or Contact Lens Prescription

Vision impairment can often be corrected by simply wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses, and your optometrist can prescribe lenses that will help you see clearer after your eye exam. There are many styles of frames that you can choose from if you prefer to wear eyeglasses, and you can explore many different shapes, sizes, and colors of frames to find something that will help you look your best. If you are prescribed prescription sunglasses, you can buy designer sunglasses that will look cool while helping you see better in bright light. Conventional or disposable contact lenses can also be prescribed to you, and it's even possible to find colored contacts that will change the color of your eyes while wearing them.

Eye exams should be part of your regular health routine. These exams can benefit you in many ways and help you see the world around you with greater clarity throughout your life.

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