Reasons for a Visit to an Ophthalmologist

Many people write off their annual visits to the ophthalmologist because their eyes seem to be just fine. However, appointments with your eye doctor are not only for people with eye problems. Routinely visiting your eye doctor will ensure that your eyes are healthy and no early signs of eye problems.

What are ophthalmologists?

These types of doctors are essentially eye doctors who are trained in conditions even beyond the eye. They can be physicians and surgeons who can diagnose and treat various eye diseases. You should complete regular visits to your eye doctor to help catch and prevent any possible vision issues that may impact you later in life. 

When should I visit the eye doctor?

You should be getting your vision checked regularly, but considering many people do not, there are a few things to watch out for. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should schedule a visit with an eye doctor. Symptoms may include:

• Blurred or double vision: If you have blurry vision or are seeing double, you need to visit your eye doctor. Either of these can indicate a severe problem.
• Floaters or spots: Many people see the occasional floater or spot in their vision. However, if you see little blobs or flashing spots in your vision, you need to visit your eye doctor as soon as possible.
• Pain: Common causes of pain in the eyes include dry eye, allergies, and infection. Over-the-counter medications such as pain killers or eye drops can provide respite. If the pain does not go away or becomes more intense, you need to visit the eye doctor. 
• Eye diseases: Vision changes could indicate diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis. They also may be symptoms of other conditions, such as cataracts, glaucoma, or age-related macular degeneration. 
• Eye-strain or headaches: Staring at a digital screen all day puts a strain on our eyes, causing eyestrain and headaches. It is usually caused by a lack of lubrication on the eyes from not blinking regularly. 
• Light sensitivity or night blindness: If you have a tough time seeing at night while driving or when you go outside after being in a dark or dimly lit room, you need to have your vision assessed. 

What to expect during the visit

When visiting an ophthalmologist, the visit will likely be pretty routine. If you are going to a new office, you will need to fill out new patient paperwork. You will then go back to the exam room for the appointment with the doctor.

Your doctor will ask you about your health history and if your family has a history of eye problems or diseases. Next, you’ll undergo a series of vision tests to assess your eyesight. 

Your doctor may do a tonometry test, where your eye will be numbed, and the doctor will use a unique tool to measure your eye pressure. The doctor also may dilate your pupils, and you will need to wear sunglasses until the sensitivity wears off. 

The doctor may also do a series of other tests to look for other diseases or health conditions. 

Get more information here: https://brighteyesmv.com or call Bright Eyes Optometry at (914) 668-1429

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