The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Everyone needs to schedule regular eye exams even if they don’t have apparent vision problems. Eye exams are vital for ensuring good eyesight and overall eye health. They allow doctors to monitor the patient’s eye health and provide preventative care. 

Many eye conditions do not have obvious symptoms in the early stages. They can also help detect health conditions. It is crucial to comprehend the importance of regular eye exams. 

Early Detection of Eye Conditions 

Eye exams are often the only way to detect eye diseases in the early stages. Early detection and diagnosis are vital for effective treatment or management. Lack of early symptoms can lead people to believe there is nothing wrong with their eyes. 

The truth is that you can have an eye disease even with perfect vision. Routine comprehensive eye exams are crucial not just for maintaining good vision but also for ensuring healthy eyes. 

Eye Exams and Success in School

A large part of classroom learning is visual. Most of what children learn in school and on the field depends on good vision. Children need regular eye exams to ensure their eyesight is good. Children today are exposed to increasing screen time, which impacts their eyesight. 
 

Many experts believe prolonged exposure to digital devices has contributed to the increase in myopia among school-going children. Kids are spending less time outdoors and more time using digital devices. 

Detection and Control of Myopia 

Myopia is becoming a global epidemic and is mainly affecting children around the world. Children are becoming nearsighted at an earlier age than ever before. When it onsets early, myopia tends to progress more rapidly. 

A comprehensive eye exam can determine if an individual has eyesight problems. Studies show that patients who develop myopia in childhood are more likely to suffer from eye diseases in the future. Early detection allows eye doctors to create a myopia management plan for the patient. 

What Eye Exams Include 

Eye doctors perform several tests during comprehensive eye exams. They include:
 

• Preliminary testing involves the evaluation of depth perception, peripheral vision, eye muscle movement, pupils’ reaction to light, and color vision. 
• Visual acuity that evaluates the vision in each eye and determines how well you see.
• Eye focusing test to determine how the eyes focus, move, and work together. 
• Evaluation of optical prescription for those who wear correction lenses. 
• Digital retinal imaging to examine the retina and the area behind the eye.
• Slit-lamp exams help examine the various eye structures. 
• Eye pressure test (IOP) to check for conditions such as corneal disease and glaucoma.

Ophthalmoscopy checks the back of the eye and can detect conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and glaucoma. 

Eye Exams vs. Vision Screening 

It is crucial to realize that vision screenings do not replace comprehensive eye exams. Vision screenings conducted in schools help determine if a child can see clearly. The DMV also conducts them to determine if individuals can see well enough to drive. However, screening does not check for other eye conditions. Passing vision screening does not rule out the presence of visual problems. 

Ophthalmologists or optometrists conduct eye exams. Annual eye exams can help detect health conditions, such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. 

For more on the importance of regular eye exams, visit Beach Cities Optometry at our Manhattan Beach, California office. Call (310) 906-4426 to schedule an appointment today.