According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, up to 1.3 million residents of the U.S. older than 40 are legally blind. Legally blind is defined as the best-corrected visual acuity that is worse than or equal to 20/200 in the eye that is better-seeing. You may not be legally blind, but you still need to take care of your eye health. Sure, keeping up with contacts and glasses can be a hassle.
Purchasing either one of them tends to be expensive since you need a prescription to get them. However, don’t be fooled by the convenience of an online eyewear store. Essentially, those stores are telling you that it is alright to skip seeing an optometrist when it is not.
Everyone Needs Routine, Comprehensive Eye Exams
A routine eye exam is your best defense against general health problems, eye disease, and vision problems. You may not even be aware that you have a problem. However, an eye exam can detect vision problems, eye disease and should be part on your routine health care. Adults should schedule an optometrist appointment for a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years.
Do You Feel Like Your Eyes Are Fine?
Even if you don’t think you are having any issues with your eyes, going to the optometrist’s office is still a good idea. Do you realize all of the demands you put on your eyes? You need to make sure that your eyes are staying healthy while putting up with the challenges of looking at digital media and computer screens for extended hours.
There are also other types of threats that could wreak havoc on your eyes. Don’t take your eye health for granted. Continue reading to find out why you should schedule an annual eye exam with an optometrist.
Digital Eye Strain Is Real
Nearly everything involves a screen of some type today whether it’s phones, computers, game consoles, e-readers, tablets, or televisions. People are inundated with screens. Digital devices have literally changed the basic functions of the eyes, especially how you blink.
Did you know it is essential to your eye health to blink? Tiny glands release a lubricating substance along your eyelids that helps reduce the evaporation of the tear film covering your eye. When you stare at a screen, you blink more and a lot slower.
If you do not have regular blinking, those small glands are not being used well and tend to clog up. The tear film could evaporate and you end up with dry eyes. Visiting with your eye doctor can help determine if you are having this problem and take the steps to fix it.
Visit an Optometrist to Correct Your Vision
Problems with vision include astigmatism, farsightedness, or nearsightedness. All of those vision problems require an eye doctor check up to ensure you have the best up-to-date prescription contacts and glasses. Your optometrist can ensure you are seeing properly.
If you wear contacts, eye doctors will want to monitor the health of your eyes carefully. Wearing contacts can have certain risks such as dry eyes. A caring optometrist will make sure that your eyes are functioning normally and that the tear film and your eyes are all healthy.
Life Is Busy Just Not Too Busy for an Eye Exam
Life can keep you pretty busy. However, you should always keep your annual eye exam, especially if you have impaired vision. Take the time to make an appointment with your optometrist. A thorough evaluation of your eye health will ensure you stay in great health and have better eye health in the long run.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Experienced optometrists are ready to help keep your vision healthy. Take advantage of their experience and have your eyes checked soon. Besides, it can be fun to be fitted with new prescription glasses and contacts to switch up your look.