When was the last time you had an eye exam? Many of us only think about visiting the eye doctor when we notice vision changes, but eye diseases often have no symptoms in the early stages. The best way to catch these conditions is through regular eye exams with our optometrists in Madison. The earlier we detect problems, the sooner we can start treatment and the better the chances of preserving your vision. In addition to scheduling regular eye exams, you should also see an eye doctor right away if you notice any of the following signs of vision problems:
Blurred vision
If you’re squinting to read street signs or struggling to see things clearly either up close or far away, it’s a good idea to have your eyes checked. Blurred vision can be due to refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, and the good news is these can usually be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
Frequent headaches
Do you often get headaches, especially after reading or binge-watching your favorite shows on digital devices? This could be a sign of vision problems. Eye strain from uncorrected vision issues or too much screen time can lead to headaches. An eye exam can help you figure out if you need glasses or if there are other ways to relieve your discomfort.
Difficulty seeing at night
If driving at night is challenging or you find it hard to see in dimly lit places, it might be time for an eye exam. Night vision issues can be a sign of cataracts or other eye health problems that need professional attention.
Eye fatigue
Do your eyes feel tired or uncomfortable after reading, writing, or being on screens for too long? That’s a sign you might need an eye exam. This discomfort can come from straining your eyes to see clearly, which might mean you need corrective lenses.
Double vision
Are you seeing double? That’s a red flag that something’s wrong with your eye health. Double vision can be caused by a variety of issues, from muscle imbalances to more serious conditions, and it’s something you should get checked out right away.
Changes in color vision
Have you been seeing colors differently, or do they seem faded? This could be a sign of eye diseases like cataracts or macular degeneration. An eye doctor can determine the root cause and recommend the best treatment.
Increased sensitivity to light
If you find that light is bothering you more than usual, it could be a symptom of several eye conditions, including inflammation or an infection. It might also be a side effect of dry eye syndrome, certain medications, or too much screen use. An eye exam can help diagnose the underlying issue and recommend appropriate solutions.
Spots or floaters
While the occasional floater is common and usually harmless, a sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light might indicate something more serious, like retinal detachment. If you experience these, it’s important to see an eye doctor immediately.
Dry or itchy eyes
Are your eyes constantly dry, itchy, or red? This could be a sign of chronic dry eye syndrome or allergies. An eye exam can help pinpoint the cause and guide you toward treatments to ease the discomfort.
It’s been over a year
Even if you have no concerns or symptoms, it’s still a good idea to schedule an eye exam if it’s been over a year since your last one. Regular exams are key for keeping your eyes healthy, especially as you get older, and your risk of eye diseases increases.
Remember, regular eye exams aren’t just about updating your prescription; they’re an important part of taking care of your overall health. At Specs of Madison, our experienced eye doctors are ready to assist you with all your eye care needs! If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, or it’s been a while since your last visit, contact us today to book an eye exam in Madison! Walk-in appointments are available, so feel free to stop by at your convenience.