How Often Do I Need an Eye Exam?

Eye exams are not only about getting a prescription for glasses or contact lenses. They play a vital role in detecting and preventing eye diseases. In some cases, they can also help identify underlying health conditions. Considering this, how often do you need an eye exam?

 

Recommended Eye Exam Frequency

The American Optometric Association gives recommendations on eye exam frequency based on your age and risk factors.

 

Some adults aged 18 through 64 need a comprehensive eye exam only once every two years. However, that’s only if they are asymptomatic or at low risk. If they have symptoms or are at risk, then an annual checkup is a must. Of course, this still depends on the recommendation of the doctor. You may require checkups more often depending on your condition.

For people aged 65 and up, an annual checkup is required whether or not they are at risk or asymptomatic.

Are You Symptomatic or at Risk?

You may be at risk or symptomatic if you have:

 

• Eye-related conditions or concerns

• A progressive or high refractive error

• Had an eye surgery or injury

• Contact lenses

• Functional vision in just one eye

• Medicines that may have side effects on the eyes

• A job that’s visually demanding or can be dangerous to the eyes

• Conditions that may affect the eyes

• A family or personal history of eye disease
  
   

Signs That Indicate the Need for an Eye Exam

Apart from regular checkups, certain signs and symptoms may indicate the need for an immediate eye exam. These signs include:

 

• Worsening of vision: Are you struggling visually more now than before? If so, that’s a sure sign you need to go to the eye doctor right away. You may need new prescription eyeglasses to correct your vision

• Allergy symptoms: Do you have watery, itchy, or red eyes? You may have allergies. This may be true even if you don’t have the classic symptoms, such as sneezing and stuffy nose. If you have allergy symptoms, it’s best to go to the eye doctor, too

• Other eye problems: Do you have eye pain, redness, double vision, or floaters? If you have sudden and unexplained eye symptoms, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. These symptoms may be indicative of an eye disease or infection
  
   

Vision Screening Vs. Comprehensive Eye Checks

While vision screenings may help identify potential vision problems, they are not a substitute for comprehensive eye exams. Vision screenings often focus on simple tests like visual acuity, which may not reveal other critical aspects of eye health. Screenings can provide a false sense of security, leading to undiagnosed or untreated vision issues.

Have Your Eyes Checked Today

Has it been more than a year since your last comprehensive eye checkup? If that’s the case, it’s time to go to the doctor. Visit us at Bright Eyes Optometry at our Red Bank, New Jersey office. You may also call (732) 605-0300 to schedule an appointment today.