5 eye checkups for good vision at any age

Wearing glasses is so common now that we are all aware of the symptoms that can indicate near- or short-sightedness. If we have headaches or trouble seeing clearly, it signals a trip to the eye doctor a.k.a. the ophthalmologist. However, our eyes can also develop a myriad of other issues as we age or develop other conditions.

Since the possibility of developing other problems exists, it is important to routinely get your eyes examined to evaluate their condition. This helps to treat issues, if any, and maintain good vision. 

5 Essential eye checkups

We understand that there are constraints on your time. Keeping this in mind, we have shortlisted the 5 important eye checkups that can help you asses your vision. This list does not include the visual acuity test that determines how clearly you see (the common test for determining near- or short-sightedness). While this list is not comprehensive, check with your doctor for an overall assessment.

1. Visual field test (Perimetry): The human field of vision is a little bit more than 180°. This test determines if you have any trouble with seeing in any areas within this field. People with pituitary tumors tend to have a loss of peripheral vision.
2. Colour vision testing: You may have poor color vision without even realizing it! During the test, your doctor might do a multicolored dots test, asking you to identify the shapes or patterns you see.
3. Retinal examination: This test i.e. ophthalmoscopy lets the doctor view the back of your eye, including the retina, optic disk, and the blood vessels. It may be suggested in case you have diabetes,  hypertension, or glaucoma. Your eyes may be dilated using eye drops for the test.
4. Eye muscle test: The doctor will observe your eye movements to assess the functioning of your eye muscles. It helps to determine muscle weakness, poor control, or poor coordination of the eyes.
5. Screening for glaucoma: Glaucoma is a progressive condition that affects the optic nerve. It may require a few specialized tests to diagnose accurately. One of them is tonometry, in which the doctor will measure the fluid pressure in your eyes.

Who needs eye checkups?

People at risk for eye diseases require regular screening. If you can relate to any of the factors below, talk to your doctor about your eye health:

Age: Advancing age increases the risk for cataract, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and other eye conditions. You will require frequent checkups if you:

• Wear glasses or contact lenses
• Have a family history of eye diseases
• Have a condition that puts you at risk for eye disease. eg. diabetes

Chronic diseases: Diabetes, thyroid diseases, hypertension, high cholesterol, certain brain tumors, etc. can harm your eyes and cause irreversible damage.

Smoking: Tobacco use can increase your risk for eye diseases like glaucoma or macular degeneration.

Sun damage: Direct exposure to UV rays can affect the retina and cornea. This may cause longlasting damage. We recommend using sunglasses and a brimmed cap for protection.

Infections: Poor hygiene and dandruff can aggravate existing eye conditions. 

5 Things to expect during an eye exam

Here are some precautions and general guidelines that will help you to have a successful eye exam.

1. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, then remember to take them for the appointment.
2. If your eyes are going to be dilated as a part of the exam, then bring your sunglasses along as well. The bright sunlight might make you dizzy afterward. 
3. Also, avoid driving or operating any mechanical device after tests that involve dilating the eyes! We recommend taking a friend along for the eye exam.
4. Be prepared to answer any questions regarding your medical history and vision problems. Remember to specify any allergies that you may have. 
5. The tests performed will depend on your health condition. This may involve dilating your eyes or giving your eye a numbing drop. 

Where to get the eye checkup?

It is best to have a thorough eye examination at a facility that not only evaluated your eye health but is also equipped to treat the diagnosed issues. At Yashoda Hospitals, we are equipped with the latest technology for all of your needs, including ophthalmoscopy, glaucoma assessment and treatment, foreign body removal, tonometry, squint evaluation, diabetic eye care, or eye trauma care.

References:

1. “Eye Exam”. Mayo Clinic. Accessed on 26 August 2019. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/eye-exam/about/pac-20384655
2. “How often should I get my eyes checked?”. Reviewed by Brian S. Boxer Wachler. Web MD. Accessed on 27 August 2019. https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/what-to-expect-checkup-eye-exam-adults#1