5 Signs It’s Time to See an Optometrist
You go to see your doctor and dentist annually for routine checkups and cleanings. However, you often neglect to see your optometrist, because your vision is strong and you are not experiencing any issues. However, an exam can go a long way in detecting any ailments early on and preventing certain conditions from getting worse.
Furthermore, undergoing a routine eye exam has numerous benefits. An optometrist will take a good look at your eyes to make sure they are free of any possible abnormalities or diseases. This includes glaucoma, cataracts, and other health issues, such as dry eyes or age-related conditions.
No matter the reason why you decide to see an optometrist, the recommendations given will help you get things back on track. Here are fivesigns that you need to see an optometrist:
Sign #1: You are unsure about the last time you had an eye exam
Do you remember the last time you visited an optometrist? If not, then you should schedule an appointment in the near future. The problem is that many diseases are difficult to detect on your own because they may not produce any symptoms. An examination can help detect the problem early on before it exacerbates. An early diagnosis is crucial for treating some of the diseases listed below:
- Cataracts
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Glaucoma
- Keratoconus
Sign #2: You are at risk for eye disease
Think about your family’s medical history. Do you have multiple family members who suffer from vision problems? If so, then you may be more likely to develop an eye disease. Genetic predispositions are not something we have control over. You should schedule an appointment if any of the following applies to you:
- You have diabetes
- You have a family history of eye disease
- You have a job that’s demanding on your eyes, such as working on a computer
- You recently had eye surgery
Sign #3: Your vision is getting progressively worse
Are you struggling to read wall markings and words printed in textbooks? If so, then your vision is likely weakening, and you should go see your optometrist. The good news is that you don’t have to feel alone in your struggles – over 150 million Americans have to use some form of corrective eyewear. Wearing glasses or contact lenses can prevent any potential eye strains, which in effect will prevent you from getting headaches.
Sign #4: You suffer from allergies
Think about how allergies affect you. Do you often rub your eyes, causing them to become irritated? Itchiness, redness, and burning are all symptoms of an eye allergy, which can happen for multiple reasons, including:
- Outdoor allergens (trees, ragweed, grass)
- Indoor allergens (cat dander, dust, mold)
- Irritants, such as perfumes or smoke
Sign #5: Miscellaneous eye problems
Perhaps you have an intuition that you need an examination. There is nothing wrong with scheduling an appointment with your optometrist to make sure you’re not experiencing any vision or eye health issues.
Here are other reasons why you should schedule an eye exam:
- Double Vision
- Eye strain/ache
- Small speckles floating before your eyes
- Headaches
- Flashes of light
- Redness and irritation
- Pain
Keep in mind that an experienced optometrist can also help you in choosing the right contact lens to improve your vision. Our optometrists will offer recommendations based on your condition. For example, a doctor will evaluate your cornea and pupil to determine which lens will work best for your eyes. They will also consider astigmatism, cataracts and other vision issues that you suffer from. Regardless of whether you may benefit from scleral lenses, hybrid lenses or Ortho-K lenses, you can take comfort in the fact that our team of eye professionals will help you find the best option for you.
Keeping your eyes healthy at all times
If it’s time for you to see an optometrist, the Miami Contact Lens Institute can help you to make your appointment. As trusted eye care providers in the greater Miami area, we services patients suffering from chronic eye issues. Call us today to schedule your first in-person consultation.