5 Signs It’s Time to Visit the Optometrist

You probably visit your primary care physician and dentist annually for checkups, but when was the last time you visited your optometrist? If you have good eyesight and do not experience any ocular issues, you may decide to forgo seeing your eye doctor.

However, regular eye exams are essential to your eye and vision health. They can help detect other health issues, such as hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. 

What Is an Optometrist? 

Optometrists are medical professionals specializing in vision and eye health. They have the formal education, training, and experience required to perform eye exams to diagnose problems and prescribe appropriate treatments. Many eye problems can go undetected and untreated for a long time if you put off visiting an optometrist for routine checkups. 

Signs It Is Time to See an Optometrist

Any eye discomfort and pain can make it difficult to function. Sometimes, it can indicate a more severe problem. So, consider making an appointment with your optometrist if you notice any of these signs.

You Do Not Remember the Last Time You Had an Eye Examination

When was the last time you visited your optometrist? If you need help remembering, it may be time to schedule an appointment with your optometrist. It would help to remember that many ocular conditions may not present any symptoms early on. 

An eye exam can help detect such conditions early, improving the chances of successful treatment. Some of these conditions include the following:

• Glaucoma.
• Cataracts.
• Keratoconus.
• Diabetic retinopathy.

Sudden Focusing Problems or Blurry Vision

Vision changes are typically gradual. A sudden vision problem could signal a more significant problem and demands immediate medical attention. You must schedule an eye exam if your vision problem seems to come and go or affects one eye. 

You Are at Risk for a Specific Eye Disease

Consider your family’s medical history. Do specific vision or eye problems seem to run in your family? If so, you have a greater chance of developing them, too. You do not have control over your genetic predisposition. It is best to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor if any of the following applies to you or a family member.

• You recently underwent eye surgery.
• You have diabetes.
• Your job is visually demanding.
• You have a family history of eye disease.

You Experience Frequent Headaches Near Your Eyes

You can start experiencing headaches around or near your eyes if you strain your eyes too much. It may signify a need for corrective lenses or a new prescription. Frequent headaches can signal a more severe eye condition, making regular eye exams essential to ruling it out.

Pink or Red Eyes

Pink or red in your eye can signal a bigger problem, such as conjunctivitis, allergies, or even a rare form of glaucoma. If you still have red or pink eyes after 24 hours, it is worth calling your eye doctor.

Regular eye exams are just as important as your annual physicals. They are essential for monitoring your vision and detecting any eye conditions early. In most cases, early detection can help prevent vision loss. So, you do not want to risk your eye health. 

For more eye care tips, visit Centennial Family Eyecare at our Las Vegas or Henderson, Nevada offices. Call (702) 941-7800, (702) 803-2020, or (702) 299-6200 to schedule an appointment today.