Comprehensive Eye Exams Can “Save Your Vision” By Catching Eye Disease Early
March is a time when optometrists and ophthalmologists celebrate Save Your Vision Month. It’s also a time when patients are encouraged to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.
Common eye diseases can lead to vision loss and even blindness. However, early treatment can often help to slow down or even prevent disease progression. Here, the vision care experts at Mittleman Eye explain how comprehensive eye exams can “save your vision” by catching eye disease early.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s normally clear natural lens. A cataract can occur in one or both eyes. Early on, cataracts can present with few to no symptoms. However, as they progress, they can interfere with your vision and even lead to vision loss.
Cataracts can be detected during a comprehensive eye exam. Depending on the progression of the cataracts, they can also be treated with cataract surgery.
The first step to avoiding cataract-related vision loss is a comprehensive eye exam. The eye doctor can check for cataracts and other serious conditions.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is actually a group of eye diseases that can lead to vision loss and blindness. It is characterized by damage to the optic nerve, the nerve that connects the eye to the brain. This damage is usually due to excess pressure in the eye.
Glaucoma can unfortunately progress with few noticeable symptoms until the damage is already done. This is why regular eye exams are so important. During a comprehensive eye exam glaucoma can be detected with a test called applanation tonometry. The test measures the fluid pressure in your eyes. If glaucoma is caught early enough, it can be managed with a number of treatment options.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Let your eye doctor know if you have diabetes. They will advise you of your risks for certain ocular diseases and check for diabetes-related eye problems, including diabetic retinopathy.
Diabetic retinopathy can be detected during a dilated eye exam. If it is detected early, your eye doctor can advise you regarding your diabetic retinopathy treatment options. If it is left untreated or undiagnosed, you risk partial or total vision loss.
Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is an eye disease that can cause central vision loss. There is no cure for macular degeneration. However, if it is detected early enough, there are treatment options that can prevent or slow its progression.
Keratoconus
In keratoconus, the normally round cornea thins and develops a bulge. This can lead to a decline in visual acuity. A comprehensive eye exam is the best way to detect keratoconus early. Early detection is the best way to preserve vision.
Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam
Now is the perfect time to schedule your comprehensive eye exam. Our knowledgeable doctors are here to help patients of all ages preserve their vision. Patients who wish to make an appointment can schedule one directly online or call or text (561) 500-2020.