Regular eye tests play a big role in maintaining eye health. Not only are they important for indicating whether you need glasses or a change to your prescription, but also for detecting some common medical conditions.
Here are some common signs that might suggest that you are due for an eye test:
- blurry vision in the distance or up close
- headaches
- heavy eyes
- the feeling of pressure around the eyes
- squinting and double vision.
Here are some reasons why eye tests help with more than just your vision and key tips on how to keep your eyes healthy.
How often do I need an eye test?
I recommend that you book an eye test at least every two years and if you are over 65, I recommend a test yearly. However, if you notice any difference in your vision, fall into a certain age group, or have started experiencing some of the symptoms outlined above, it’s best to book an eye test appointment as soon as possible.
Not only are regular eye tests important for indicating whether you need glasses, but they also help detect common medical conditions. Systemic health diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and some auto-immune conditions can present in the eye.
Common eye conditions such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and cataracts should also be constantly monitored. Early detection can reduce progression and ultimately save your sight.
How can I maintain eye health?
When you’re out and about, don’t forget about your eyes! As you would apply sunscreen to protect your skin from sun damage, you should put on sunglasses to protect your eyes from glare and UV as well. UV exposure can lead to the formation of cataracts, development of growths on your eyes called pinguecula and pterygium, cancers along the eye lid, and age-related macular degeneration.
In addition, having a healthy diet is important. Including certain vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals to your diet can improve your eye health and vision. These include lutein and zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc which can be found in leafy green vegetables, fruits, nuts, and fish. Incorporating these into your diet can help reduce your risk of certain eye diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration and the progression of cataracts.
Getting regular eye tests ensures that your prescription is up to date and allows your optometrist to look for changes in your eye health. Comprehensive eye tests include a health check using a slit lamp and additional retinal photos and scans. This allows for detection and documentation of possible risk factors for eye diseases. Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders, and many others can be picked up by your optometrist before you see your GP!
Keep your eyes on the prize with AIA Vitality
Did you know you could earn 1,000 AIA Vitality Points just for getting your eyes checked on a regular basis? Simply complete an eye exam every three years and receive 1,000 AIA Vitality Points for each year within that period. Head to the Get Points section on the AIA Vitality app for more information.
Dr. Samantha Chen - Optometrist (B. VSc / M. Optom.) of ONEPOINTSEVENFOUR
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Copyright © 2023 AIA Australia Limited (ABN 79 004 837 861 AFSL 230043). This is general information only, without taking into account factors like the objectives, financial situation, needs or personal circumstances of any individual and is not intended to be financial, legal, tax, medical, nutritional, health, fitness or other advice. The source information of the articles is current as of the date of publication and may be subject to change. While the information contained herein is believed to be accurate, AIA Australia expressly disclaims any and all liability for representations or warranties, expressed or implied, contained in, or for omissions from, the information.
Copyright © 2023 AIA Australia Limited (ABN 79 004 837 861 AFSL 230043). This is general information only, without taking into account factors like the objectives, financial situation, needs or personal circumstances of any individual and is not intended to be financial, legal, tax, medical, nutritional, health, fitness or other advice. The source information of the articles is current as of the date of publication and may be subject to change. While the information contained herein is believed to be accurate, AIA Australia expressly disclaims any and all liability for representations or warranties, expressed or implied, contained in, or for omissions from, the information.
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