Certain people require eye exams more often due to certain health issues or factors in their lifestyle. Allow us to explain four reasons why you may need an eye exam:
1. Wear Glasses or Use Contact Lenses
Did you know that your eyes’ needs can change over time? Your prescription glasses or contact lenses you have right now might not be what you need in a year or two. Eye exams can help determine if a change is necessary or if the prescription you have now is still effective.
2. Have a Family History of Vision Loss
Genetics play a major role in whether you develop eye diseases or suffer from vision loss. Talk to your parents and grandparents about your family history regarding eye diseases, then relay this information to your eye doctor during your eye exam.
3. Suffer with a Chronic Disease
Chronic diseases can negatively affect your vision, so it’s vital to take preventative measures to keep your whole body healthy! Here are nine of the most common health conditions that can drastically affect your eyes:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Liver disease
- Lyme disease
- Rosacea
- Shingles
- Sickle cell disease
- Vitamin A deficiency
4. Take Medicine that Can Negatively Affect Your Eyes
How often do you read the medicine box for possible side effects? If you don’t make it a habit to read the side effects warnings, we highly encourage you to do so. There is prescription medicine that can help your health issue but create other problems like vision loss.
Vision Eye Group Offers Eye Exams!
We are proud to offer comprehensive services ranging from complex eye surgery to annual eye exams. If you do not have any symptoms of eye disease, the Mayo Clinic recommends scheduling your eye exams based on this schedule:
- 20 – 39 years old; Every 5 – 10 years
- 40 – 54 years old; Every 2 to 4 years
- 55 – 64 years old; Every 1 – 3 years
- 65+ years old; Every 1 – 2 years