Are routine eye exams really necessary? It is a question we get here at Lake Nona Eye care all the time. The fact is, regular eye exams are important for everyone, children and adults. Especially if there is a family history of vision problems or potential risk factors.
Not only do they detect if you need glasses or contact lenses, but also other issues, such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts, age related macular degeneration, high blood pressure, inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders, learning problems, headaches, and many others! Many eye conditions, if caught early can be effectively treated.
Before Your Comprehensive Eye Exam Appointment
Make sure you know your family history when it comes to any vision or health problems. Bring a list of any medications you are taking, prescription and over the counter, and \any glasses or contact lenses you wear. Your eyes will be dilated during the appointment, so don’t forget to bring a pair of sunglasses. The appointment itself shouldn’t take over an hour, which isn’t very long when it comes to your health!
What to expect during the eye exam
Various tests are performed during an eye exam to evaluate eye muscle capabilities. Depth perception, peripheral vision, color vision, responsiveness to light and other tests are performed, to determine whether the eyes are moving, focusing and working together properly.
During a comprehensive examination of your eyes, your pupils may be dilated so the internal structures of your eye can be examined to ensure the ocular health and visual system are healthy. This includes, the posterior portion of your eye where the retina, optic nerve, veins and arteries can be viewed directly, providing a clear picture of your vascular health.
“When a patient comes into the office for an examination, we do so much more than just update a prescription for glasses or contacts. Our tests are specialized for the needs of each individual and allow us to check the overall health of our patients. By analyzing images of the back of the eye, for example, we can see how a patient’s blood vessels are functioning which can signify serious conditions like hypertension that often go undetected.” said Dr. Steven A. Loomis, O.D., AOA president.
It all starts with an eye exam at Lake Nona Eye Care
Eye health should be taken seriously at every age. For a lifetime of healthy vision make sure you schedule a comprehensive exam at Lake Nona Eye Care. Don’t forget to stop by our newest office in the Eagle Creek Publix shopping center.