Eye Doctor

Each year many people suffer from serious vision impairment problems because they failed to see their eye doctor on a regular basis. Although it can be easy to overlook, making an appointment with your optometrist to have your eyes checked on a regular basis is just as important as an annual check-up with your general practitioner.

One of the reasons that many people do not see their eye doctor on a regular basis is because they think their vision is fine and there is no reason to go in for a check-up. It is important to note that even if it seems as though you see fine, it is still critical to have your eyes checked routinely. At a minimum, you should see your eye doctor once every two years and in some circumstances, it can be a good idea to see your eye doctor once per year.

Most people do not realize it, but many serious vision problems do not actually begin to cause vision loss until the disease has already become firmly established. Had the patient had an eye exam with their eye doctor earlier, the problem could have been addressed and vision loss may have been mitigated.

If you are under the age of 40, it is a good idea to see your eye doctor at least every two years, provided that you do not have any problems with your vision. Once you reach age 40, you should make an appointment with your eye doctor at least once every two years, at a minimum. After age 65, you should have an eye exam once per year. Remember that seeing your eye doctor on a routine basis will provide an improved basis for detecting and treating eye problems that could lead to permanent vision loss much sooner.

A typical eye exam with your eye doctor can usually be completed in under an hour. It will include a test to determine your visual acuity. The eye doctor may also dilate your pupils in order to test for eye disease and vision loss. A grid test may also be performed to test for other vision disorders as well, including macular degeneration. Based on your individual situation, the doctor may also recommend other tests as well. Remember that even if it is not time for your regular eye exam, if you experience any problems with your vision, it is important to see your eye doctor right away.