It’s a common misconception that eye exams are only used to assess a person’s vision. These visits tell specialists much more about your health. By receiving a comprehensive exam, you could uncover important insights not only about your eye health but also about your overall physical wellness. Here, Dr. L R Gabe, an experienced eye doctor from Show Low, AZ, explains what physicians can discover during vision exams.

How Eye Exams Can Monitor Overall Health

1. High Blood Pressure

Hypertension — or high blood pressure — affects the entire body. The condition causes an excess force of blood against the artery walls, which may result in blood vessel damage within the eyes. During your exam, your doctor can spot small tears or kinks in these vessels, and if so, may recommend you see a physician to investigate further.

2. Chronic Diseases

Signs of certain chronic diseases can also manifest in the eyes. Diabetes, for one, can produce fluid leaks in the small capillaries within the eye. Lupus and other autoimmune conditions— such as Crohn’s or Lyme disease — may cause ocular inflammation. Lastly, rheumatoid arthritis can cause dryness or burning in the eyes. Your doctor can indicate the presence of any illness.

3. Eye Conditions

Lastly, it’s no surprise that eye doctors are adept at diagnosing eye conditions. They can often spot early signs of eye problems long before their symptoms become noticeable. This includes potentially serious issues like glaucoma, retinopathy, and macular degeneration, all of which can be treated early to slow progression or manage through treatment.

Like any regular exam you receive, eye exams provide essential insights into a person’s overall wellness. It is important to maintain a regular schedule, even if your eyes seem to be in perfect health. If you’re due for a visit, you can call the office of Dr. L R Gabe at (928) 537-5565 to schedule your appointment, or visit them online to learn more.