Protecting Your Vision with Regular Eye Exams

Many eye conditions develop gradually and without obvious symptoms in their early stages. By the time you notice vision changes, the condition may already be advanced. Regular eye exams allow your ophthalmologist to detect problems early, when they are most treatable, and to monitor changes in your eye health over time.

What Happens During a Comprehensive Eye Exam?

• Visual acuity testing to measure how clearly you see at various distances
• Refraction assessment to determine your exact prescription for glasses or contact lenses
• Tonometry to measure intraocular pressure and screen for glaucoma
• Slit-lamp examination to assess the health of your cornea, iris, and lens
• Dilated retinal examination to evaluate the back of your eye including the retina and optic nerve

How Often Should You Have an Eye Exam?

Adults aged 18 to 60 with no known risk factors should have a comprehensive eye exam at least every two years. Adults over 60, those with diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of eye disease, or contact lens wearers should be examined annually or as recommended by their eye doctor. Children should have their first eye exam at 6 months, again at age 3, and before starting school.

Eye Exams Can Detect More Than Vision Problems

Your eyes provide a unique window into your overall health. During a comprehensive eye exam, your doctor may detect early signs of systemic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, autoimmune diseases, and even certain types of cancer. This makes regular eye exams an essential part of your preventive healthcare routine.