Most people think of an eye exam as a way to update their glasses or contact lens prescription. But did you know that a routine eye exam can reveal much more than just changes in vision? At , our comprehensive eye exams go beyond simple vision tests to assess the overall health of your eyes and even detect early signs of serious conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.
More Than Just a Prescription Update
A vision screening at the DMV or in a school nurse’s office might tell you that you need glasses, but it won’t assess the overall health of your eyes. A comprehensive eye exam includes:
- A thorough check of your visual acuity to determine whether you need a new prescription.
- A retinal exam to detect early signs of diseases like diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.
- Glaucoma testing to check for increased eye pressure, which could indicate the onset of this sight-threatening condition.
- A corneal health assessment, especially important for contact lens wearers.
- An evaluation of eye muscle coordination to catch issues like lazy eye (amblyopia) or eye strain.
Regular eye exams do more than help you see clearly—they play a crucial role in preserving your long-term vision.
Detecting Silent Eye Diseases Early
Some of the most serious eye conditions develop without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. This is why routine exams are essential, even if you don’t think anything is wrong. Our team at screens for:
- Glaucoma – Often called “the silent thief of sight,” glaucoma can cause irreversible damage before symptoms appear.
- Diabetic Retinopathy – A major concern for individuals with diabetes, this condition can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
- Macular Degeneration – A leading cause of blindness in older adults, early detection allows for better management and treatment options.
- Cataracts – These gradually cloud the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurry vision and sensitivity to light.
By catching these conditions early, we can implement treatment plans that may slow progression and help preserve your eyesight.
How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?
Many people only visit the eye doctor when they notice vision changes, but waiting for symptoms isn’t the best approach. The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends the following schedule for eye exams:
- Children (6 months – 5 years): First exam at 6 months, another at 3 years, then before starting school.
- Children (6–18 years): Annual eye exams to catch vision issues that could impact learning.
- Adults (18–39 years): At least every two years, or annually if you wear contact lenses.
- Adults (40–64 years): Every one to two years to monitor for early signs of age-related eye conditions.
- Seniors (65+ years): Annual exams to check for cataracts, macular degeneration, and other aging-related concerns.
If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of eye disease, or other risk factors, more frequent exams may be necessary.
Protecting Your Vision for a Lifetime
Regular eye exams do more than just safeguard your sight; they contribute to your overall well-being. Many systemic health conditions—such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and even brain tumors—can first be detected during a routine eye exam. Your eyes provide a window into your overall health, making regular check-ups essential.
At , we use advanced technology to assess your eye health and provide personalized care. Whether it’s updating your prescription, managing an eye condition, or discussing options like specialty contact lenses or LASIK, we are committed to helping you achieve your clearest, healthiest vision.
Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam Today
If it’s been more than a year since your last eye exam, now is the perfect time to prioritize your eye health. Our team at is dedicated to providing thorough, patient-centered care for individuals of all ages.
📍 Serving patients in Lomita
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