When it comes to quality of life, many of us overlook the importance of the eyes. Keeping the eyes healthy throughout life is vital for being able to perform daily tasks. As such, visits to the eye doctor should be of top priority.
Here are 9 reasons why visiting the eye doctor is so important.
Our eyes change over time
Unlike other areas of the body, the eyes can experience gradual changes over time that are largely undetectable to the patient. Oftentimes, we make small adjustments to accommodate these changes in vision without even knowing it. These adjustments in vision can result in issues such as headaches, eye fatigue, and squinting.
Exams can detect asymptomatic eye diseases
Cataracts and glaucoma are examples of conditions that can develop almost undetected. Cataracts develop gradually, meaning that they are usually unnoticeable until they have gotten severe. Glaucoma is also sneaky, as there are no clear signs early on. Eye examinations can check for these conditions early on, allowing patients to take measures against them.
Clear vision is vital for learning in both children and adults
Many children are believed to have learning disabilities when in actuality the issue is a vision problem. Detecting conditions such as amblyopia, in which the eyes and brain have trouble communicating, can save a young child’s vision. At any age, education depends on healthy vision.
Detecting diabetes early on
Few patients are aware that eye doctors can detect Diabetes early on. Diabetes is associated with certain eye conditions, including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts.
Diagnosing other health conditions early on
Diabetes is just one of many health conditions that can be detected early on through an eye exam. Others include high blood pressure, cholesterol issues, detached retinas, and certain neurological disorders.
Poor vision is not inevitable
While it is normal for people to develop vision issues as they get older, there are measures that can be taken against them. Getting regular eye exams can help protect your eyes well into your golden years.
Irritated, swollen, or light-sensitive eyes
When these conditions arise, most of us chalk it up to a lack of sleep or another passing condition. While these may indeed be a factor, iritis, blepharitis, or infection may also be the root cause. Eye exams can check for these.
Safety
It goes without saying that proper vision is necessary to carry out everyday tasks of life. For example, driving a car or walking down a flight of stairs rely on clear vision. As such, eye exams are important for our lives in general.
Feeling and looking our best
Certain styles of glasses can make us feel self-conscious about how we look. Beyond that, ill-fitting glasses can cause headaches and pressure sores. Eye exams can help patients determine what changes need to be made to their current eyewear in order to make them look and feel better. They can also check to see if the patient is a candidate for contact lenses.
What is the takeaway?
Eye exams are vital for multiple aspects of our lives. Proper eye health is vital for our overall well-being. Visits to the eye doctor should be prioritized at the same level as any other checkup.
