When was the last time you had a general eye exam? Many people are surprised to learn that booking a checkup with their optometrist for regular eye exams is something that should be incorporated into your health checkup routine. There are several benefits of having your eyes checked regularly, and you shouldn’t have to wait until you have an issue or problem with your eyes to see an optometrist. 

Still not convinced? Here are five reasons why you should get your eyes examined regularly!

1. Prevention 

Regular eye exams help to prevent the likelihood of future eye issues. During your eye exams, your optometrist can identify any symptoms or underlying factors in your health that can affect the quality of your eyesight and the wellbeing of your eyes. The topmost reason to get your eye exam conducted regularly is to spot any early signs of potential vision issues and the early detection of changes in your eyes so they can be addressed and treated early.

2. Diagnosing Asymptomatic Defects

When there are asymptomatic defects, there may not be any visible signs until the problem is full-blown and already limiting an individual’s sight. One of the most common asymptomatic eye defects is Glaucoma. The condition develops slowly and if left unattended, it could lead to a total loss of sight. By getting your eye examined regularly, asymptomatic eye defects can be detected by your optometrist and treatment can be started swiftly to prevent life-long damage to your eyes.

3. Up to Date Prescriptions

If you rely on glasses, contacts or other forms of eye support for clear vision, a visit to an optometrist’s office should be an annual endeavour for you. Regularly visiting the optometrist will help you stay up to date on your prescriptions and prevent any problems affecting your eyes.

4. Reporting Symptoms

Symptoms like eye dryness, squinting, and watery eyes, maybe tell of other more serious issues, but you might not realize it until you get a proper eye exam. By getting regular eye exams, you can keep a medical record of your symptoms and assist the optometrist in providing the best care for your eyes. 

5. Unveil and treat related health problems 

Like most parts of the human body, the eyes can showcase symptoms of other issues in your body. Eye exams primarily focus on your eyes, optical nerves, and other parts of your physiology that have to do with the visual senses. However, symptoms and diagnosis may result in detecting early signs of other health problems. 

Eye exams should be a part of your regular health checkup routine and not just left until you have some discomfort or blurred vision. The best way to ensure your appointments are booked is to set them at the end of your next visit. This way your annual checkup is already scheduled.