Getting regular eye checkups is essential, even if you don’t wear glasses or contact lenses. This is because eye exams can tell you a lot about your general health.
We’ll explain why exams are important, how often you should see an eye doctor in Mamaroneck, NY, and what to expect at an appointment.
Why Are Eye Exams Important?
Doctors can view blood vessels in the eye, which can tell you a lot about your general health. A thorough exam can spot serious problems like diabetes, lupus, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and eye diseases like glaucoma and macular degeneration. With a regular eye exam, you may be able to catch these problems sooner rather than later and avoid serious health complications.
How Often Should You See an Eye Doctor?
If you do not have any vision problems or severe health complications, most doctors recommend getting regular eye exams based on your age. These include:
- Ages 20 to 39: Every five years
- Ages 40 to 54: Every two to four years
- Ages 55 to 64: Every one to three years
- Ages 65 and up: Every one to two years
Those who wear glasses or contact lenses, have a family history of eye disease, or have a chronic condition should have their eyes checked more often (generally every year). Children under three should have their eyes examined for problems like lazy eyes or crossed eyes.
Seeing an Optometrist vs. Ophthalmologist
There are many different types of eye doctors, so deciding who you should see for an eye exam can be confusing. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors licensed to practice medicine and surgery, but they can also prescribe glasses and contact lenses.
Optometrists are licensed professionals who perform eye exams and vision tests and prescribe glasses and contact lenses. They may be able to detect some eye problems and may prescribe medications for certain eye diseases.
If you have more complicated issues with your eyes, consider making an appointment with an ophthalmologist.
What Can You Expect at Your Eye Exam?
An optometrist will check your eyes for vision problems or diseases such as glaucoma or cataracts during an eye exam. You’ll be asked to provide information on your overall health, family medical history, and any medications you take.
You’ll read letters from an eye chart to test your vision's sharpness. Other tests may include checking your 3D vision, peripheral (side) vision, and color perception. Shining a small light into your eyes, the doctor will observe your pupils and eye muscles.
In some instances, the doctor may use medicated eye drops to dilate your pupils to examine the blood vessels and nerves in the back of your eye. If you need your vision clear immediately after your appointment, you can ask the doctor not to dilate your pupils.
Schedule an Appointment with Raphael Opticians
If you’re looking to get new eyeglasses near Mamaroneck, Raphael Opticians is the perfect place. We offer a wide range of eye care services, from eye exams to glasses and contact lenses. What’s more, we only use the latest technology to ensure that you get the best eye care possible.
Are you ready for new prescription eyewear? At Raffy’s, our eye doctors can make glasses for any prescription. We use durable, scratch-resistant polymers for the lenses and carry designer eyewear brands for frames.
Contact us to schedule an appointment at 915-949-0575 or through our contact form.
