Whether you’re driving to work or watching TV, you rely on your eyes every day. To ensure they’re working as well as they should, an annual eye exam is recommended. If you’re wondering whether it's time to see an optometrist, the eye care experts at Allens Creek Family Optometry in Rochester, NY, share a few signs.

Your vision can change significantly from year to year, and these changes can be more drastic as you age. If any of these common issues resonate with you, it’s time to call your eye doctor:

• Eye Discomfort: If your eyes are red, itchy, or dry, or you experience spots, cloudiness, or other vision peculiarities, let your eye doctor know as soon as possible. If you spend the bulk of your day staring at a computer screen and have eye strain, blurred vision, or headaches, you probably need an eye exam to correct your vision.

• Diabetes & Glaucoma: Diabetes is commonly linked to eye problems, including diabetic retinopathy. If you have diabetes, it’s important to visit your eye doctor regularly to prevent vision loss or other issues. Those who suffer from eye conditions like glaucoma or cataracts should visit their optometrist more frequently. If you’re over 50, you’re at increased risk of many eye conditions, so it’s best to schedule regular eye exams.

• Driving Difficulties: If you struggle to read signs or see objects while driving at night, this is not only a vision problem but a threat to your safety. Your optometrist can provide solutions to help you see clearly and drive comfortably. 

• Vision Changes: If you’re squinting to read the newspaper or holding your cell phone far from your face to read text messages, schedule an eye exam as soon as you notice vision changes. You also should head to the eye doctor if you experience dizziness or motion sickness while reading or watching moving objects.

For expert eye exams in Rochester, visit Allens Creek Family Optometry. To schedule an appointment, call (585) 461-6225. Visit their website for more information about their services, including vision therapy, and check their Facebook page for more news from the practice.