Even if you don't have any major problems with your vision, you should see your eye doctor for an exam on a regular basis. A visit to the eye doctor isn’t only about determining whether you need glasses. Your eyes can provide clues to other health problems, and catching potential problems early can protect your sight for as long as possible. 

What’s the Value of an Eye Exam?

Eye tests aren’t only to determine whether you need glasses. A comprehensive eye exam, in which the eye doctor dilates your pupils to see more of the inside of your eye, can help identify specific health problems, including diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Eye exams can also reveal problems like glaucoma or cataracts before they become an issue. If you already wear glasses, you should have your prescription checked and updated to ensure you are seeing as clearly as possible. 

When Should Children Get Eye Exams?

According to the American Optometric Association (or AOA), children should have their eyes examined between the ages of 6-12 months, and then again between the ages of 3 and 5. After that, children should see the eye doctor for an exam annually. Children with vision problems or certain risk factors may need eye exams more often. Some of these risk factors include a family history of eye problems, prematurity or low birth weight, complications at birth, specific developmental disorders or health conditions, and a history of eye surgery. Children complaining of headaches or who are having trouble academically at school should see the eye doctor to determine whether their eyesight needs correction. 

When Should Adults Have Their Eye Checked?

The AOA recommends that adults have eye exams every other year until age 65, at which point they should be getting annual exams. Again, people who have known eye issues or certain risk factors — like people with a family history of eye disease, health conditions like diabetes, or those taking medications that can affect vision — should see the eye doctor at least annually. If you already wear glasses or contacts, or if you have had LASIK® or other vision correction procedures, annual exams are crucial as well. You should always see the eye doctor if you have signs of eye trouble, such as pain, blurred vision, or sudden changes to your vision.

If you’re due for your regular eye exam or if you are having problems with your vision, call the eye doctors at Alexander Eye Associates & Optical in Rochester, NY. They provide comprehensive eye exams for all ages in a welcoming environment. To schedule an appointment, call (585) 325-3070, or visit them online for more information about their services.