Optometry is a branch of healthcare that examines, diagnoses, and treats the eyes, vision, and disorders related to the eyes and vision systems. People often think optometry only relates to eyeglasses or contact lenses, and while that is a part of optometry, it is not the entire job description.

When discussing optometry and optometrists there is a lot of confusion with ophthalmologists and opticians who also work with disorders of the eyes and vision systems. The difference between these specialists is nuanced but comes down specifics of training and education. Optometrists have a doctorate level education and provide front-line eye care. Optometrists are typically the first doctor a person sees for a routine eye checkup or if they have questions about their eye health.

When to See an Optometrist

Most people will see an Optometrist during their eye exam, but how often should an adult get an eye exam? Authorities in eye health say adults should get an eye exam every one to two years. The frequency of your eye exams will depend on your overall health and any existing illnesses or disorders.

People with diseases that can affect eyesight or eye health such as lupus or diabetes should have an exam annually. Annual or bi-annual exams typically catch any issues that should be monitored or treated.

Other times a person should schedule an appointment with an Optometrist is if they suffer from chronic eye illness such as dry eyes.

Choosing An Optometrist

One of the biggest tips that can be helpful is to write your questions and concerns about your eye health in the days and weeks leading up to your appointment with the optometrist. In the heat of the moment sitting face to face with our health care providers, it’s natural to forget questions and even some of the issues you may have been struggling with. Having a list of questions and concerns can combat this.

Additionally, prior to the day of the appointment, it’s recommended that the patient ask if the optometrist plans to dilate their eyes. Eye dilation is a process that involves an optometrist using special eye drops that widens the eye allowing a better look inside. This process often causes temporary blurring of the eyes for up to about 90 minutes after the procedure. Since the patient cannot drive themselves during this time, it may be helpful to bring a friend or loved one with you to the appointment if eye dilation will be part of your exam.

For more information about the optometry services offered at Southside Medical Center and caring for the health of your eyes, please speak with our educated staff. We are conveniently located in Atlanta, GA. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!

Many people work on a computer every day and do not realize that they are straining their eyes. Staring at a computer screen for hours on end causes your eyes to be exposed to different light than it is exposed to when you are not staring at the screen. If you notice that you have started to feel pain in your eyes or are getting headaches on a regular basis, use the following guide to learn how a visit to an optometrist may be able to help you. The right optometry services at the right time really could help you to see better.

Determine If You Have Limited Vision

Your vision changes over time. If you have not been to see an optometrist in a few years, there is a good chance that your eyesight may have changed. Visiting the optometrist allows you to have your vision checked so that it can be corrected through optometry services if need be. This can reduce the number of headaches that you have and help you to be able to see better when you drive.

Determine If You Have a Disease in Your Eye

There are times when headaches can occur because you have a disease that has developed in your eye. Treating the diseases as quickly as possible is important. Our optometry team uses machines in the office that test to make sure that you do not have glaucoma and many other vision diseases.

Have Your Vision Corrected

If you do have vision issues that need to be corrected, the optometry team will be able to determine exactly what prescription you need. If you choose to wear glasses, there are lenses available that will protect your eyes from the harmful blue light that comes from the computers. This can make work much easier for you and reduce the headaches that you get.

It’s important to wear your glasses as often as the doctor suggests. There are some people who only need vision correction when they are reading and some who need it all of the time.

Make an appointment at Southside Medical Center in Atlanta to take advantage of our optometry services. Contact us today to book your appointment!