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When it comes to your health, you likely prioritize trips to your general practitioner or dentist over a visit to the eye doctor. Regular eye exams are essential to your overall well-being, however. Even if your sight seems to be fine, eye health issues can take a long time to show symptoms—which often appear once it’s too late for a quick fix. The eye doctors at Comprehensive Eye Care in Washington, MO, are here to explain the importance of regular eye exams.

3 Reasons to Get an Eye Exam Regularlyeye doctor

1. Make Adjustments for Changes in Vision

Have you been sporting the same pair of eyeglasses since you were a teenager? Your vision has likely changed since then—it’s time to check your eyesight! Even if you’ve never worn glasses or contact lenses, your vision will change with age, likely requiring additional support. Vision can change at any age, so whether you’re 15 or 50, it’s worth keeping track of changes with regular eye exams.

2. Catch Eye Health Problems Early On

Eye diseases are common and can go undetected for a long time, as many show no symptoms initially. A comprehensive eye exam is needed to detect diseases like glaucoma in their initial stages. Caught early, most eye conditions can be treated and vision preserved. In the worst-case scenario, a disease like glaucoma left undetected and untreated can lead to partial or full vision loss.

3. Detect Other Medical Issues

An eye exam can reveal more about your general health than simply your vision. Some health problems, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, can actually show symptoms in your eyes. A trained eye care professional will know how to spot these signs and can alert you accordingly—giving you the impetus you need to get further tests and check these medical risks as soon as possible.

Exactly how often you should visit the eye doctor depends on your general health, personal vision background, and family history. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for instance, certain groups at higher risk for glaucoma—such as African Americans over age 40—should have more regular eye checks. Talk to an eye doctor about your own case to determine how frequently you should be getting eye exams. If you’re in Washington, MO, Comprehensive Eye Care can help. Visit their website, or call (636) 390-3999 to make an appointment.

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