In a perfect world, everyone would make an annual eye doctor appointment. Unfortunately, that’s often not the case. So, if you’re wondering about your eye health, here are a few signs that mean it could be time to schedule your next eye doctor appointment:
Your Eyes Are Irritated
If your eyes are dry, red, or itchy, then it’s time to see your eye doctor. These symptoms could be the result of seasonal allergies, but they could also be indicative of eye strain or another underlying eye problem. Fortunately, your eye doctor can help you determine the root cause of your eye irritation. You should also seek out your eye doctor if you’re experiencing spots, flashes of light, or floaters in your vision. These symptoms may not be as physically irritating as dry eyes, but they’re issues your eye doctor can help you resolve.
You Have a Known Condition That Affects Your Eyes
If you have a known condition like diabetes that’s affecting your eyes, it’s important to keep up with your regular exams at your eye center. Conditions like hypertension, rosacea, and liver disease can all have negative effects on your eye health, making regular appointments with your optometrist that much more important. Even a family history of one of these conditions should be cause for booking an eye doctor appointment. You may need exams more often if you have one of these conditions and/or you’re in your 50s or beyond.
You’re Experiencing Strain or Pain
Eye strain is never a good sign, but it is a sign you need to see your eye doctor for an exam sooner rather than later. Many of us spend hours each day staring at computer and phone screens. While that naturally does cause some eye strain, it’s important to note when the strain is becoming irritating. Headaches and blurred vision after staring at a screen are also telltale signs it’s time for you to schedule an eye doctor appointment.
You Notice Any Changes in Your Sight
Any changes in your vision should prompt a visit to your eye doctor. Whether you’ve had excellent vision for your entire life or you were diagnosed with nearsightedness at a young age, changes in your vision must be addressed as soon as possible. If you make an appointment with your eye doctor, physicians can help you diagnose the issue and resolve it.
You Can’t Remember Your Last Eye Exam
This is one of the surest signs it’s time for your next eye appointment. Like we said before, it’s ideal to have an eye exam at least once a year. For the one in three people with astigmatism, that’s an appointment they can’t skip. And you shouldn’t skip yours, either! If you can’t remember your last eye exam or you know it’s been over a year, you’re due for an appointment as soon as possible.
Your annual eye exam is an important part of maintaining your health. If you’re experiencing any of these signs or it’s just been a while since a physician performed an eye exam on you, contact our team at Eye Consultants of Atlanta today!