Eye exam

Understand the importance of a comprehensive eye exam

The importance of a comprehensive eye examination lies in the early detection of eye problems that may not present obvious symptoms. These issues can become difficult or even impossible to treat once they reach an advanced stage. Unlike school vision tests, a thorough examination by an optometrist is essential for ensuring good eye health. Automated vision tests are not sufficiently accurate or comprehensive to evaluate overall eye health.

Optometrists play a crucial role in diagnosing, treating, and preventing eye diseases and visual system disorders. They can detect general health problems during a comprehensive eye examination and refer patients to specialists if necessary. From childhood to old age, optometrists provide care to maintain good vision and optimal eye health, contributing to a better quality of life.

During a comprehensive examination, the optometrist assesses various aspects of vision and eye health, including visual quality, internal and external eye health, accommodation ability, eye movements and coordination, peripheral vision, color vision, and depth perception. Based on the results, they may recommend treatments such as glasses, contact lenses, vision therapy, medical treatments, or surgery.

It is important to emphasize that scheduling a comprehensive eye examination does not require a prior recommendation. It is advisable to find an optometrist nearby and schedule an appointment without delay. This simple step can help detect eye problems early and preserve long-term visual health. In conclusion, a comprehensive eye examination is an essential step in maintaining clear vision and optimal eye health throughout life.

Stay alert for symptoms that could signal a vision or eye health problem in your child. If you notice any of these symptoms, don't delay in making an appointment for a complete eye exam with your optometrist.

• red, itchy or watery eyes
• sensitivity to light
• eye that constantly squints inward or outward
• excessive squinting, rubbing, or blinking of the eyes
• lack of concentration
• child hiding or closing one eye
• irritability or short attention span
• child who holds objects too closely
• child who avoids books and television
• child who is visibly frustrated or grimacing

A regular eye exam is crucial to maintaining eye health throughout life. For adults aged 20 to 64, a complete examination should be carried out at least every two years s, with an annual frequency for diabetics. Health problems other than vision may require more frequent or thorough examinations.  People aged 40 and over are more likely to develop eye problems  age-related, some of which may be asymptomatic until advanced stages. Without an eye exam, these problems could go unnoticed and become difficult or impossible to treat. In short, regular monitoring of eye health is essential to preserve vision and detect problems early.

  The most common eye problems among adults include:

 

• Presbyopia  : natural effect of aging which reduces over time the ability to focus on nearby objects. Presbyopia can cause headaches, blurred vision, hurt your eyes, or require you to use brighter lighting.   
• Cataracts : Distorted or blurred vision caused by the lens losing its transparency over time. Cataracts may require you to change your glasses or have surgery. Wearing UV protective glasses helps delay the onset and progression of cataracts.
• Diabetic retinopathy  : weakening of the tiny blood vessels at the back of the eye due to uncontrolled blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It causes bleeding, the formation of new blood vessels and swelling of the retina, which causes vision changes. Left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to blindness.
• Macular degeneration  : disease that produces degenerative changes in the back of the eye and affects central vision. It is the leading cause of vision loss in older adults.
• Glaucoma : also called the "silent thief" of vision, because often no symptoms appear until significant damage has been done. It causes damage to the nerve tissue at the back of the eye, often linked to increased eye pressure. If not detected and treated early, it can lead to irreversible vision loss.
  
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From the age of 65, it is recommended that adults have an eye exam every year.

Adults aged 65 and older are more likely to experience the vision problems mentioned above. They are also at increased risk of developing low vision, a condition that significantly limits visual ability and can interfere with daily activities if left untreated. Promptly detecting and treating vision problems, even if they have no obvious symptoms, is crucial to preserving your vision and maintaining optimal quality of life.

Optometrist Gatineau

Farmer's Square
64-C, boulevard Gréber
Gatineau (Quebec) J8T 3P8

819-246-1699