When we think of eye exams, the first thing that comes to mind is often obtaining a new prescription for contact lenses or glasses. But eye exams are all about more than just correcting vision. Eye exams can be essential in identifying underlying health issues that are not otherwise noticeable. Whether going to your local Calgary eyeglass stores for a regular check-up or getting advice from an eye care specialist for advanced treatment, an eye exam is one of the best options to detect potential health conditions early. Many of the health conditions that impact your overall health can be detected with a good eye exam, which means it is a must to have regular eye exams to check your overall health.
1. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
High blood pressure is one of the most prevalent medical conditions screened for with an eye examination. The eye’s blood vessels can be narrowed or even damaged in hypertension. These are usually identifiable by an eye professional, and one can look for changes in the retina and optic nerve. If not treated, high blood pressure can cause a variety of complications, such as vision loss, stroke, and heart disease. If your eye doctor sees signs of hypertension, they can refer you to your primary care physician for further treatment and evaluation.
2. Cataracts
Cataracts are a common condition that causes the lens in the eye to become cloudy, leading to blurry vision. The condition tends to develop slowly, and most people are unaware that they have it until it reaches a point of severity that impacts their eyesight. Cataracts can be easily diagnosed through an eye test, and the good news is that they can be cured through surgery. An eye specialist can monitor the progression of cataracts and recommend treatment based on how severe the condition is.
3. Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a collection of eye conditions that can harm the optic nerve and cause loss of vision and blindness if not treated. It has been called the “silent thief of sight” because it generally advances without warning signs. An eye test can identify early symptoms of glaucoma, including elevated intraocular pressure, which can cause damage to the optic nerve over time. If detected early, glaucoma can be treated with medication or surgery to avoid severe vision loss. Regular eye tests are essential for people over 40, as they are more likely to develop glaucoma.
4. Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is a condition associated with aging that impacts the center of the retina, the macula. This part of the retina is accountable for clear, detailed vision. When the macula is compromised, it may cause blurry or distorted central vision, which may interfere with reading, driving, or identifying faces. Macular degeneration can be either dry or wet. An eye test can identify the early stages of macular degeneration, enabling early intervention to control the condition and maintain vision. Eye tests are crucial for individuals over 60, as age is the most significant risk factor for macular degeneration.
5. Diabetes
Another dangerous health condition that can be detected through an eye exam is diabetes, specifically diabetic retinopathy. This happens when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels within the retina. Early diabetic retinopathy usually does not present with symptoms, hence the importance of routine eye exams for those with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes. If detected early, the development of diabetic retinopathy can be slowed down, which lowers the risk of irreversible vision loss. An eye exam in Calgary may be the starting point in effectively managing this condition.
6. Neurological Disorders
Eye tests may also reveal signs of neurological illnesses such as brain tumours, multiple sclerosis, and strokes. How the optic nerve appears or unusual patterns of vision may point to neurological issues that must be treated immediately. If an eye doctor sees such indicators, they will refer you to a neurologist for testing and evaluation. Early detection of neurological diseases can make a big difference in enhancing treatment success and preventing serious complications.
Conclusion
Eye tests are more than simply ensuring your eyesight is good. They are an excellent tool for identifying a range of health issues that have no symptoms until they have grown to a serious point. Regular eye check-ups are vital to keeping you healthy. By catching problems early, eye exams can enable you to take proactive measures to guard against illness and protect your vision for years.
