Southside Medical Center performs eye exams in Atlanta and strongly recommends patients maintain regular eye exam appointments as a way to detect and prevent eye disease. We find that many patients don’t know how often they should be screened or what the visits entail. This FAQ can help to answer some of the most common questions.
How Often Do I Need My Eyes Examined?
How often you should be examined depends on a number of factors. There are different examination recommendations for children and adults. Children should have an examination in infancy and prior to starting school. If there are no signs of vision problems, they can go two to three years between examinations. For adults, when no eye problems are present, eye exams should be every three years until the age of 40. After that, it is best to have annual examinations.
Why Do I Need More Exams After the Age of 40?
The need for eye exams increases as you age because the risks of certain eye diseases increase with age including:
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Macular degeneration
It is possible to be in the early stages of the above diseases but still not notice symptoms. However, we are able to diagnose conditions even during stages where you perceive them to be asymptomatic. Once we detect a condition, we can provide early intervention. The earlier you begin treatment, the better your chances of preventing and delaying the onset of the disease.
How Should I Prepare for an Eye Exam?
Prior to your exam, write down all medications you are currently taking. You should also write down any questions you would like to ask our optometrist. If you have glasses or contact lenses, please bring them to your appointment.
After assessing your vision, the health of your eyes can be checked. We will test for glaucoma and other conditions.
For more information on eye exams in Atlanta, schedule a consultation at Southside Medical Center in Atlanta. Contact us today to book your appointment!