If you’re wondering when to see an eye doctor, chances are it is time to visit one. Although you can visit an eye doctor for a number of reasons, here are four times you can be sure it is time to see an eye doctor.

If It’s Been Over a Year Since You Saw One

The true key to keeping your eyesight the best it can be is to go to the eye doctor at least once a year for a check-up. Your eye doctor will be able to see patterns in your eyesight and ensure any small issues do not grow into larger issues down the road. Prevention is the first step of protection against any type of health issue, and that is true for eye care.

If You Are Experiencing Eye Pain

If your eyes are causing you an unusual amount of pain, it is a good time to see your eye doctor. When to see an eye doctor due to eye pain may vary based on your personal eye history. If you know a certain issue is reoccurring, you might not see a doctor unless it surpasses certain thresholds for pain or length of the issue.

You Have Difficulty Seeing to Drive at Night

This symptom, usually referred to as night blindness, is caused by your eyes not adjusting quickly enough to changes in lighting. Difficulty seeing at night can be a sign of several deeper eye problems from certain types of vitamin deficiencies to glaucoma. Glaucoma is a serious issue that impacts more than 2.7 million Americans over the age of 40. If you are experiencing this issue, it is a good idea to go to your eye doctor and check out what underlying issue is causing your night blindness.

You Notice Significant Changes in Your Vision

If you notice an increased difficulty in seeing close up or far away objects or words, it is time to check in with your eye doctor. Your vision changes with time, but there is no reason not to adjust the corrective lenses in your glasses to solve these problems.

If you are experiencing any of these problems, your local eye doctor and eye care professionals will be able to help you. Eye care is just as important as any other part of your physical health and making it a priority can keep your vision healthy and strong for years to come.