Eye health is a critical component of your overall well-being, yet it's often overlooked until problems arise. Regular eye exams are not just about determining a prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses, but also about evaluating your eyes for common eye diseases, assessing how your eyes work together, and checking for signs of larger health issues.
Here at 20/20 Eye Care Center in Fullerton, we understand the importance of eye exam frequency for adults and children alike and how certain conditions can impact how often you need to be tested.
Eye Exam Frequency for Adults
For adults, the American Optometric Association recommends a comprehensive eye exam every two years if you are under the age of 60 and annually after you turn 60. However, if you have risk factors or a family history of eye problems, more frequent exams are necessary. Here are some conditions that might necessitate more regular visits:
Diabetes
Diabetes can lead to conditions like diabetic retinopathy, which can cause significant vision loss. If you're diabetic, yearly exams—or more frequently if advised by your eye doctor—are essential to monitor and manage any changes in your vision.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is often called "the silent thief of sight" because it can progress without symptoms. People over 40, especially those with a family history of the disease, should be tested every year or two. Early detection is crucial for managing the condition and preventing vision loss.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can affect the blood vessels in the eyes, which may lead to retinal disorders. If you suffer from hypertension, you should follow the eye examination schedule your eye care professional recommends.
Eye Exam Frequency for Kids
Children should have their first pediatric eye exam at 6 months of age, again at age 3, and just before they enter the first grade. School-aged children should have an eye exam annually.
These exams are vital for detecting issues that can affect learning and development, such as amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed eyes).
When Special Circumstances Dictate Exam Frequency
Certain conditions or occupational demands can dictate the need for more frequent eye examinations:
Pregnancy
Pregnant women may experience vision changes due to hormonal shifts and should consult with their eye care professional on how often to get checked.
High-Demand Visual Work
If your job involves demanding visual tasks or if you're experiencing visual discomfort, an eye exam can help rule out or address vision problems that may contribute to eye strain.
Contact Lens Wearers
Those who wear contact lenses may need more frequent exams to monitor their eyes' health and ensure the lenses are fitting correctly and comfortably.
Why Frequent Eye Exams Matter
Comprehensive eye exams do more than just check how you see. They also entail a close look at the internal and external health of your eyes.
This can reveal hidden health issues such as high cholesterol, autoimmune diseases, and even tumors. By detecting such conditions early, you're not only protecting your vision but also potentially saving your life.
The Case of Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a prime example of why regular eye exams are crucial. This disease damages the optic nerve and can lead to irreversible vision loss. There are no symptoms in the early stages, so many people don't know they have it until some degree of vision is lost. Routine eye exams can catch glaucoma early when it's most treatable.
The frequency of glaucoma testing should increase as you age, especially if you are at a higher risk. If detected early, medication or surgery can slow or prevent further vision loss. The key is early diagnosis, which can only be achieved through regular eye exams.
Protect Your Vision with Regular Eye Exams
At 20/20 Eye Care Center, we care deeply about your vision and overall health. We use state-of-the-art technology to provide comprehensive eye exams that evaluate your eye health and vision quality.
Don't wait for symptoms or changes in your vision before scheduling an eye exam. Regular check-ups are a preventative measure that can help you maintain good vision throughout your life.
Contact Us to Book Your Appointment
We are committed to providing the highest quality eye care to our community in Fullerton, CA. Whether it's time for your routine exam, or if you have any concerns about your eye health, don't hesitate to contact us or book your eye exam online.
Our friendly and experienced team at 20/20 Eye Care Center is here to ensure that your vision is always at its best.
