Regular eye exams are an essential part of preventive medicine because many of the conditions which do cause vision loss and other eye problems can be detected early. Even if you don't need eyeglasses and your vision is fine, you should visit an optometrist at least once every two years or every year after the age of 60. Through visual checks and other tests, Daniel J. Kroger OD in West Chester, OH, will monitor the condition of your eye and keep you up to date on preventive care for a wide range of conditions.

Glaucoma

One of the most common causes of blindness in the U.S., glaucoma is an especially large risk for black and Hispanic patients. Glaucoma is slow to develop and is both asymptomatic and difficult to detect in the early stages. Your optometrist will check for this condition by testing the fluid pressure in your eye—a procedure not usually offered by your primary care physician.

Macular Degeneration

Another condition which you may not spot without an eye exam is macular degeneration. This affects the centers of the retina and may cause blurriness or blind spots, but, since it affects your eyes separately, your other eye may compensate for the damage until it becomes too advanced, making it difficult to detect on your own.

High Blood Pressure

Hypertension is usually monitored by your primary care physician, but, if you don't go for regular checkups, an eye exam may be the first time this condition is noticed. High blood pressure causes retinal damage, which your optometrist may notice before other symptoms present themselves.

Diabetes

Regular eye exams are essential for people with diabetes, and they have been warned of the risk of vision loss. However, if you haven’t been diagnosed, retinal damage may be the first sign of something wrong.

Don't skip your annual or biannual eye exams. They might be your chance to save your vision and discover life-threatening conditions in time to receive treatment. If you're overdue for an exam, contact Daniel J. Kroger OD today at (513) 777-3936, or visit him online.