Routine Eye Care

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), early detection, treatment of eye problems and protecting your eyes, are the best ways to take care of your vision. Routine eye exams are important for maintaining good vision.

Persons with a family history of eye problems, as well as an eye injury that required medical or surgical treatment, may be at a greater risk for developing eye problems. Diabetics and African Americans over the age of 40 are also more likely to have eye problems, according to the AAO.

All infants should have their eyes screened by an ophthalmologist, primary care physician, pediatrician or other healthcare provider, by six months of age or whenever concerns arise.

Children ages 3 to 5 should have their eyes examined for serious eye problems, like cross eyes or lazy eye, as well as refractive errors (farsightedness, astigmatism and nearsightedness). Contact our office immediately, if there is a family history of eye problems or if the child appears to have any of the conditions listed above.

Children and teenagers, ages 3 to 19 should have a full eye screening every one to two years to ensure healthy vision. Adult’s ages 20 to 39 should have a complete eye exam at least once between the ages of 20 to 39 and twice between the ages of 30 to 39. If there is a noticeable change in vision, pain or dry eyes that itch and burn, schedule an appointment immediately.

For adults ages 40 to 64, preventative measures, as well as a comprehensive evaluation every two to four years, will ensure good vision is maintained. Seniors age 65 and older should be careful to schedule a full eye exam every one to two years to be on the lookout for glaucoma, cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, according to the AAO.

As with any medical condition, early detection is key and can reduce the need for more comprehensive visual treatment in the future.