When looking after our health, we often think of doctor's visits, blood tests or annual dental check-ups, but what about our eyes? Our eyes are our windows to the world, and a regular eye examination can reveal much more than just vision problems. It's a key step not only in maintaining clear vision but also in monitoring your overall health.
Sight as an indicator of health
An eye exam doesn't just check whether you need glasses or not. During a comprehensive examination, your optometrist can detect early signs of serious diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, or even certain cancers. In fact, many systemic diseases first manifest themselves as ocular abnormalities before showing symptoms elsewhere in the body.
For example, diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes that can lead to irreversible vision loss if not detected and treated early. In addition, high blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels in the eye, signalling an increased risk of stroke or heart attack.
Preventing eye disease
Some eye diseases, such as glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), develop slowly and without apparent symptoms in their early stages. Without regular check-ups, these conditions can progress undetected, leading to permanent damage to vision. Regular check-ups enable us to diagnose these conditions as soon as they appear and act quickly to limit their progression.
Impact on quality of life
Eye health is intimately linked to quality of life. Blurred vision, frequent headaches or eye fatigue can make daily activities such as reading, driving or working in front of a screen much more difficult. It can even have an impact on productivity and concentration.
With increasing amounts of time spent in front of screens, particularly among young adults and professionals, it's even more crucial to take care of your eyes. The effects of blue light on the eyes, including digital eyestrain, can be mitigated with appropriate corrections or advice on visual ergonomics.
When should you consult an optometrist?
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends a complete eye examination every two years for adults aged 20 to 64, and annually for those over 65. For children, regular eye exams are essential to ensure optimal visual development, particularly in a school setting where good vision is crucial for learning. Adults over 40 should also be vigilant, as the risk of age-related eye diseases increases with age.
In summary, a regular eye examination is about more than correcting myopia or adjusting your glasses. It plays an essential role in the early detection of many diseases while helping you maintain optimal vision. Taking care of your eyes means taking care of your overall health. So, the next time you plan your check-ups, don't forget to include an appointment with your optometrist in your calendar.
Your eyesight deserves your full attention and will thank you for it for years to come.
