When should you see an optometrist?
You should see an optometrist when there are changes in vision, problems with eye movement or when headaches or eyestrain occur regularly. Children’s eye exams begin at six months old, adults should get an eye exam every two years, and seniors should get an eye exam every year.
There are several other situations when it is important to see an optometrist
In addition to the mentioned reasons, there are several other situations when it is important to see an optometrist:
- Eye discomfort or pain: If you are experiencing any kind of discomfort, pain, or irritation in your eyes, it is advisable to consult an optometrist. They can examine your eyes to determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment or guidance.
- Blurred or hazy vision: If you notice sudden or gradual changes in your vision, such as blurred or hazy vision, it is essential to schedule an appointment with an optometrist. They can assess your eyesight and determine whether you require corrective lenses or if there is an underlying eye condition that needs attention.
- Eye infections or redness: If you have symptoms of an eye infection, such as redness, itching, discharge, or swelling, it is crucial to seek professional care. Optometrists can diagnose and treat various eye infections, including conjunctivitis (pink eye), styes, or other bacterial or viral infections.
- Eye injuries: In case of an eye injury, regardless of how minor or severe it may seem, it is vital to see an optometrist promptly. They can evaluate the injury, provide appropriate treatment, and ensure that no long-term damage has occurred.
- Pre-existing eye conditions: If you have been diagnosed with an eye condition, such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy, regular visits to an optometrist are necessary. They can monitor the progression of the condition, adjust treatments if needed, and provide guidance on managing your eye health.
- Chronic health conditions: Certain systemic health conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, can have implications for your eye health. Regular eye exams with an optometrist are important to monitor any changes or complications associated with these conditions.
- Family history of eye diseases: If there is a history of eye diseases or conditions in your family, it is recommended to see an optometrist for regular eye exams. Some eye conditions, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, have a genetic component, and early detection can help in managing or preventing them.
Remember, these are general guidelines, and individual circumstances may vary. It’s always a good idea to consult with an optometrist or eye care professional for personalized advice based on your specific needs and concerns.
Related FAQs
The primary symptom of myopia is difficulty seeing objects at a distance, such as road signs or chalkboards. Other symptoms may include eyestrain, headaches, squinting, and needing to sit closer to screens or books to see clearly.
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is an eye condition where distant objects appear blurry, while close objects can be seen clearly. It occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea’s curvature is too steep, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it.
The corneal curve is measured using a technique called corneal topography. This non-invasive procedure creates a detailed map of the corneal surface, showing its curvature and any irregularities. During the test, you may be asked to focus on a target, and a specialized instrument captures images of the cornea’s shape. The data obtained from corneal topography aids in assessing tear film stability, identifying areas of potential dryness, and assisting in the diagnosis and management of dry eye.
Yes, the corneal curve can provide insights into the severity of dry eye. An uneven corneal surface can disrupt the tear film, leading to dryness and discomfort. Specialized tests, such as corneal topography, evaluate the curvature of the cornea and its impact on tear distribution. Changes in the corneal curve, along with other clinical assessments, help eye care professionals determine the severity of dry eye and tailor appropriate treatment strategies.
The curve on the front of the eye, known as the cornea, plays a crucial role in dry eye detection. Changes in the corneal surface can affect tear distribution and stability, leading to dry eye symptoms. Optometrists and ophthalmologists use advanced imaging techniques to analyze the corneal curvature and its changes over time. This helps detect dry eye by identifying irregularities that can contribute to tear film instability and ocular discomfort.
The MYAH is a versatile tool that does many things. It measures the length of your eye, checks the shape of your cornea, looks at how your pupil responds to light, and analyzes how light behaves on the front surface of your eye. It can image the meibomian gland structure and tear film height. It’s also helpful for finding the right kind of contact lenses. The MYAH helps keep track of how your eye changes over time, measures your eye’s focusing power, and shows any differences in the shape of your cornea between visits. It can also show how light might be causing some blurriness. So, it’s like a really useful tool for understanding your eye health and helping you get the best lenses if you need them.
West Edmonton Vision Clinic
Visit our vision clinic in central West Edmonton for comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, glasses, and more. LL Eyecare Centre is dedicated to providing the highest quality optometric services and products to our patients. Our team of experienced optometrists is here to help you with all of your eye care needs. Schedule an appointment today!
Clinic Hours
Monday Closed
Tuesday 9:00-5:00
Wednesday 9:00-5:00
Thursday 9:00-5:00
Friday 9:00-5:00
Saturday 9:00-2:00
Closed Sunday / Holidays