Many people live with poor vision without even realizing they can improve their eyesight just by visiting an ophthalmologist. Did you know that about 11 million people need some kind of vision correction? If you are not sure about your vision, or you are putting off going to the eye doctor for way too long, don’t worry because we will provide you with some advice.
Symptoms
Here are some signs you might need an eye exam:
- Poor distance vision
- Blurred coles-up vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Difficulty seeing objects both at the distance and close up
- Eye strain and eye fatigue
- Difficulty adjusting from dark to light surroundings
- Double vision
- Frequent headaches
If you have one or more of these symptoms, don’t be afraid. It doesn’t mean you have a serious problem! You just need to have your eyes checked by a professional so they will be able to detect and treat any possible problem in time.
Myopia
Myopia or nearsightedness is a very common eyesight problem. It is usually diagnosed by a basic eye exam (including an eye health exam and refraction assessment). An ophthalmologist may also use a few instruments and ask you to look through various lenses in order to test your vision. Don’t be surprised if he/she puts drops in your eyes to dilate your pupils, which will enable them to give more precise diagnostics. Dilation will make your eyes sensitive to light for a few hours, so make sure you have a friend or a family member to accompany you home after your exam.
The goal of treating myopia is to improve light-focus on your retina, which can be accomplished through the use of corrective lenses or surgery. However, most cases aren’t severe, and surgery isn’t necessary.
Prescription lens types are eyeglasses and contact lenses.
Eyeglasses are a very simple and safe way to sharpen your vision. There are many types of eyeglasses, from single vision, bifocals, trifocals, and multifocal. Make sure you consult with your doctor, who will prescribe you the best type for your problems. Eyeglasses are very fashionable nowadays, so they don’t have to represent any problem for you. It’s like adding a fancy accessory to your face, that helps your vision and your day-to-day life.
Contact lenses are worn directly on your eyes. You can choose from a variety of materials and designs, including toric and multifocal designs, gas permeable combined with spherical, and soft or rigid. You should purchase the type of contacts that your ophthalmologist recommends. It’s always wise to listen to an expert when it comes to your health, so try not to experiment for yourself. Make sure you take care of your contacts regularly, in order to avoid eye infections and other problems.
Hyperopia
People who suffer from hyperopia (also known as farsightedness) find it difficult to focus on close objects. It’s a very common reflective error in the eye that makes nearby objects blurry, while distant objects are seen clearly.
The most usual way to treat hyperopia is through corrective glasses and contact lenses. The goal is to allow your eyes to focus on objects that are very close to you since the images are focused behind the retina.
Farsightedness can’t be prevented, since it is most likely an inherited defect, but it helps to detect it in its early stages. Experts suggest visiting an ophthalmologist once a year if you have been diagnosed with hyperopia, because it can be associated with severe diseases, like glaucoma.
The symptoms of farsightedness aren’t always directly related to vision. People can experience redness of the eye, pain, headaches, or fatigue. It can increase as you get older, so it’s recommended to check your eyesight regularly after you turn 40. It is very common for middle-aged people to experience symptoms of hyperopia, even if they have never had problems with their vision while they were younger.
However, hyperopia isn’t usually severe, and it can be corrected by wearing contact lenses, or glasses with converging lenses. Surgical treatment is rare but possible. It is very delicate, so make sure you get the best therapy possible.
Severe Eye Problems
We didn’t forget about many eye problems that are much more severe. Issues like macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or color blindness are very serious, so make sure you consult with a specialist. Studies have shown that 30% of the population in the U.S. neglect getting their eyes checked. Some of these problems can easily lead to vision loss.
Take care of your eyes and protect your vision. Wear sunglasses to safeguard the eyes from harmful UV rays and always wear eye protection if there is a possibility of injury at your job, or while working around the house.
It’s not very difficult to be proactive when it comes to your health. If you notice any symptoms, visit your doctor and be responsible. In doing so, you would be preserving your eyesight until you grow old.
