How frequently should you schedule eye exams?
The American Optometric Association (AOA) advises yearly eye check-ups, but the most reliable source for personalized recommendations is your regular optometrist or ophthalmologist. Ignoring annual eye exams may lead to symptoms indicating that your eyes require attention.
If you find that you're squinting frequently, or holding objects unusually close or far to read them, it's likely time for an eye exam.
Vision changes, especially difficulties in focusing on fine print, can happen to anyone as they age, a condition known as presbyopia. But other, possibly latent, eye issues could also be worsening.
Sandra Block, chair of the World Council of Optometry's public health committee, states, “Many adults received glasses as kids but never consistently wore them. When they turn 40, reading becomes a significant problem for them."
Here are five indicators that it's time for an eye exam:
Frequent headaches around the eyes Strained focus could lead to headaches. If you're experiencing headaches around the temples, your eyewear prescription may need adjustment.
"Particularly for those over 40, these kinds of headaches may suggest the need for progressive lenses that offer varying degrees of correction," notes Benjamin Foreman, a Pennsylvania-based optometrist.
Vision-related headaches should be examined by an eye specialist. Conditions like ocular migraines, for example, may be mistaken for other eye issues and should be evaluated by a professional.
Difficulty in focusing Visual changes vary between children and adults. Children struggling to read the board often indicate developing myopia. For adults, challenges in spotting distant signs may signal an eye health issue or prescription change.
"As you age, the fine print gets harder to read," says Block. Noticing changes in your vision warrants an immediate eye exam.
Persistent dry eyes Dry eyes can lead to blurred vision or excessive tearing. "Any redness, discomfort, or eye discharge should be immediately addressed," recommends Block.
Night vision problems If night driving has become challenging, anti-glare coatings on your glasses may help. Continued discomfort, despite anti-glare lenses, could indicate developing cataracts.
An unknown last eye check-up date The frequency of eye exams can be subjective. "Some say annual exams are enough; others suggest more frequent check-ups based on personal eye health," Block notes.
It's crucial for children and those with diabetes to have annual eye exams. For others, regular exams serve as precautionary measures. "Some eye diseases manifest without visible symptoms or pain," adds Block.
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