Even if there are no immediate issues with one's vision, there can be gradual changes that are light enough for people to not notice. In fact, most people will not notice these changes until they begin to reach the advanced stages. This is why routine eye exams are essential to one's health. Routine eye exams involve measuring the strength, health, and level of vision to treat any issues.
Routine eye exams are available at Carmi Eye Care in Carmi and the surrounding area. If we notice any signs of a more severe issue, we can recommend early treatment to prevent the condition from getting worse. Eye exams can be simple, comfortable, and are an effective measure in keeping your eyes healthy.
Even if it has been some time since you last had an eye exam, or if you have never received one, call us at 618-374-0513 to schedule an appointment.
In preparation for an eye exam, it can help to write down any questions to bring up during the appointment. We will also need to review the patient's medical history, current condition, and any medications they are currently taking. This information can help us to ensure the patient receives the care they need.
To determine the level and strength of the patient's vision, the patient will read an eye chart to test how well they see at various distances. The patient will cover one eye while the other is being tested. Our team may shine bright lights directly at the eyes, check their side vision, follow eye movement, and use a puff of air to examine the eye pressure. Each exam will help the doctor assess the patient's vision and eye health.
The goal of an eye exam is to ensure the eyes are healthy and prevent any condition from getting worse in any way we can. Even if the patient does not notice any immediate changes to their eyesight, it is crucial to schedule routine eye exams at least once every two years. If the patient is facing challenges seeing with their glasses or contacts, then we may need to make changes to the current prescription.
The benefits of eye exams go beyond keeping tabs on one's eye health. There are a variety of conditions that impact one's eyesight and are difficult for the patient to notice until the advanced stages. Thus, visiting an optometrist is a proactive and beneficial way to catch these signs early. Benefits of a routine eye exam can include:
A routine eye exam helps detect eye problems as soon as possible and gives patients a stronger chance of fighting off symptoms. Routine eye exams not only reveal possible eye concerns but also uncover larger health issues. Many people first learn they have serious conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol from a routine eye exam.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, states that diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness among adults with at least 4.1 million Americans affected by retinopathy.
Since diabetic retinopathy and other symptoms may not even display early signs, it is crucial to seek regular eye exams. We can help identify any areas of concern and recommend how to proceed.
Patients who have a family history of eye conditions or issues will need to schedule more frequent eye exams. There are chronic conditions that can be genetic, such as glaucoma.
If you are healthy and are showing no signs of vision problems, have your eyes checked at least once every two years. If a patient has any eye conditions or family history of issues, we may recommend appointments at least once a year or more often.
Degenerative eye conditions are common and are also frequently preventable. By scheduling routine eye exams long before they reach advanced stages, you will give yourself the best possible chance at maintaining a strong vision for years to come.
Do not wait until blurriness, blind spots, or headaches become a problem. If it has been more than a year since your last checkup — even if you have perfect vision — call Carmi Eye Care in Carmi at 618-374-0513 to schedule an appointment.
My eyes are fine. Do I really need a routine eye exam?
Your eyes might seem fine now, but only a comprehensive eye exam can tell if you are at risk for any vision problems. Some eye disorders, like glaucoma, may never show any symptoms. Routine eye exams are your best defense against future vision concerns.
What happens during a routine eye exam?
Routine eye exams are quick and painless. Our team will go over your medical history, test your vision at various distances, and look at the overall health of your eyes. We will also determine if you need prescription glasses.
Do I have to get my eyes dilated at a routine eye exam?
We do recommend having your pupils dilated during a routine eye exam. This helps our optometrist examine the inside of the eye more thoroughly. The drops last several hours, and your pupils will be larger than normal. You can expect to be more sensitive to light, so we recommend bringing a pair of sunglasses for the drive home.
How should I prepare for a routine eye exam?
Mention any vision problems you’re having when you call to schedule your appointment. Before you go, make a list of any questions you want to ask. Be ready to answer any questions about any medications you’re taking and your family’s eye health history. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them along with the prescription.
If I'm having trouble seeing at a distance, is that a sign of an eye condition?
Possibly. In some cases, issues seeing at a distance can be the sign of a more severe eyesight condition. However, it may also mean that a patient merely needs to wear glasses or change their current prescription. No matter the case, call us to schedule an examination so we can help you receive the care you need.