Why Getting Your Eyes Checked Is So Important

When was your last eye test? The flicking lights, snapping of lenses, and pyramid of letters paint an almost nostalgic picture. Yet these routine check-ups aren’t just a light-hearted collection of quick tests and snappy decision-making. Getting your eyes checked is incredibly important.

Do you remember that woman who discovered a brain tumour from a routine eye test? Not all cases are quite as high-stake, but it’s an essential reality. Here’s why regular eye checks are important for general health, not just vision.

Early Detection: More Than Just a Prescription Update

The NHS rolls out 13 million eye tests each year. That number is staggering but isn’t just facilitated with prescription updates in mind. These tests are essential for the early detection of serious eye conditions, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Prevention is always better than correction. The sooner these issues are detected? The higher the chance of successful treatment and prevention of secondary impact, the better.

Eye Tests and Your Overall Health

Here’s the secret: optometrists don’t just detect issues with your eyes. The saying might be that “eyes are the windows to the soul,” but really, they are windows to your vascular and neurological systems. A good optometrist can detect diabetes, raised cholesterol, and high blood pressure — all from a quick peek inside your eyes. Talk about killing two birds with one stone.

Contact Lens Users: Why You Shouldn’t Skip Your Tests

It’s incredibly simple to purchase contact lenses online, and that’s fantastic. However, routine testing reduces the risk of dry eye, infections, or corneal damage for regular users. Using contact lenses can be a daunting lifestyle adjustment; it’s worth checking that you’re doing everything by the book. Fit and updated prescriptions are also essential — nobody wants to put in useless contacts.

Kids, Seniors, and Screens: Special Considerations

There are additional considerations for all ages. For young children, it’s important to check for vision issues that might prove barriers to development and learning. As working adults, digital eye strain and blue light concerns are the major risks. For seniors, a heightened risk of age-related eye diseases requires proactive checks. 

How Often Should You Get Checked?

Everyone should be opening that optician door at least once every two years. However, this frequency will depend on your age, current vision status, and whether you use contact lenses. Speak to an optometrist about a personalised schedule. It depends on you and your eyes.

Don’t Wait for Symptoms: Vision Loss Is Often Silent

Eye conditions creep up on us. In fact, many of those impacted might not even be aware that they’ve begun to experience vision loss. Tests are quick, painless, and absolutely worthwhile. Don’t wait for symptoms; be proactive.

Are you overdue? Schedule that eye test today; it’s about seeing well and staying well.

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