Ideally you are getting an eye exam at least every two years to help detect conditions that can be successfully treated and prevent you from losing vision- cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachment- these can all be treated if diagnosed and treated early. But as we are all very busy and often neglect our own care there are 5 signs that you should not ignore and see your Ophthalmologist right away-
1. You see new floaters and flashes of light- This is a hallmark of retinal tears and needs immediate attention.
2. Eyes are red and uncomfortable- This may indicate an infection or inflammation that needs treatment before it progresses to damage the eye.
3. You have difficulty driving at night or seeing the street signs clearly- This may indicate cataract formation or need for distance vision correction.
4. You have to hold things farther out to read- menus, books, or your phone. This is a sign of presbyopia.
5. You have an underlying medical condition such as diabetes or hypertension- these diseases can cause bleeding in the eye which is vision threatening and require routine care for early diagnosis and treatment.
Most important- don’t wait until you notice one of these signs to schedule an eye exam. Your sight is the most precious gift you possess- you have to care for it. You should care for them at least as much as you care for your teeth-you have 32 of them and only 2 eyes.
