How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam? Expert Advice

When was the last time you had an eye exam? Many people only visit their optometrist when they notice vision problems, but routine eye exams are essential for maintaining healthy eyesight and detecting potential issues before they become serious. Understanding how often you should schedule an eye exam can help you stay on top of your eye health and prevent vision problems down the road.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Annual eye exams are more than just an opportunity to update your prescription—they play a crucial role in detecting and managing eye diseases, vision changes, and overall eye health. Many eye conditions, such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, develop gradually and may not show symptoms in the early stages. Routine exams allow your optometrist to identify these conditions before they cause irreversible damage.

Additionally, regular eye exams can detect signs of systemic health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and even neurological disorders. By prioritizing your eye health, you are also taking an essential step in maintaining your overall well-being.

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

For most adults and children, an annual eye exam is recommended. However, certain individuals may need more frequent check-ups based on their age, medical history, or risk factors.

Some people should schedule eye exams more frequently, including:

•          Children with vision problems – Kids with myopia (nearsightedness) or other vision issues should have regular check-ups to monitor their prescription and ensure proper eye development.

•          Adults over 60 – Age-related conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma become more common with age. More frequent exams help with early detection and management.

•          People with existing eye conditions – Those diagnosed with glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or other vision disorders need closer monitoring to prevent further deterioration.

•          Individuals with a family history of eye disease – A higher genetic risk of conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration may require earlier and more frequent exams.

•          Diabetics and those with hypertension – These conditions can impact eye health and lead to complications like diabetic retinopathy.

Signs You Need an Eye Exam

Even if you don’t fall into a high-risk category, certain symptoms indicate it’s time to see an optometrist:

•          Blurred or fluctuating vision

•          Frequent headaches or eye strain

•          Difficulty seeing at night or adjusting to light

•          Dry, itchy, or red eyes

•          Increased sensitivity to light

•          Double vision or seeing floaters and flashes

•          Difficulty focusing on screens or printed material

Ignoring these signs can lead to worsening vision problems or underlying health issues going undiagnosed.

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today

Routine eye exams are a vital part of maintaining clear vision and overall eye health. For most individuals, an annual eye exam is the best way to ensure their eyes are healthy, their prescription is up to date, and any potential issues are caught early. Those at higher risk may need more frequent check-ups to prevent vision loss and manage ongoing conditions.

At Image Eye Care, we are committed to providing comprehensive eye care for patients of all ages. Visit our office in Weldon Spring, Missouri, or call (636) 447-2244 to schedule an eye exam today.