close
Health

When Should You Get an Eye Exam?

An eye exam is the process of having the health of your eyes evaluated by a medical professional. It begins with measuring your visual acuity to determine how well you see at various distances, including reading an eye chart. An optometrist may take photographs of the inside of your eyes for further evaluation if needed. There are various reasons you might need an eye exam, but the most common one is getting a prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses. This article looks at some of the signs you need to get an eye exam in Jacksonville. Read on to learn more. 

  • You Have a Condition That Affects Your Eyes

If you have a condition that affects your eyes, such as diabetes, glaucoma, or cataracts, you should get an eye exam regularly. These conditions can cause vision loss if they are not treated appropriately. Your optometrist will be able to monitor your condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment. An excellent example of these conditions is diabetes. As many as 3 in 10 people with diabetes have diabetic eye disease. Diabetes can damage small blood vessels in the retina, increasing your chances of developing vision loss or blindness.

  • You Have Motion Sickness, Dizziness, or Trouble Following Moving Targets

If you have problems with motion sickness, dizziness, or trouble following moving targets, you should get an eye exam. These symptoms may indicate a vision problem that needs to be treated. People with motion sickness often have issues with their balance and coordination because their eyes do not match the information they receive from their other senses. This confusion can cause them to feel dizzy or sick.

  • You Wear Contacts

If you wear contacts, you should get an eye exam at least once a year. Contact lenses can increase your risk of developing eye problems, such as corneal ulcers and infections. These problems are much more common in people who wear contacts for extended periods each day. If you have worn contacts for at least ten years, you should get an eye exam every six months.

  • You Notice Changes In Your Vision

You should get an eye exam if you notice changes in your vision. Some of the most common changes include blurry, cloudy, double vision; frequent headaches; and trouble seeing at night. Other symptoms that may indicate a problem with your eyes include discomfort after reading for long periods, pain when looking at light sources, and inability to see well in one or both of your eyes. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is vital to get an eye exam as soon as possible, as they may be signs of a severe problem.

In summary, an eye exam is a process of having the health of your eyes evaluated by a medical professional. You may need an eye exam if you have diabetes or a condition that affects your eyes. People with motion sickness, dizziness, or trouble tracking moving targets should also get one. Additionally, you need to see a specialist for an eye exam if you wear contacts or notice changes in your vision.