Your eyes are your windows to the world, and keeping them healthy should be a top priority. While our West eye care team at Eye Contact Madison usually recommends you come in for a routine eye exam at least once every other year, certain signs could indicate serious issues that require you to come in more often, including for immediate evaluation. Here are some key indicators that it's time to make an appointment with your eye doctor.
Changes in Vision
One of the most obvious signs that you need an eye exam is a change in your vision. Whether you notice that things are starting to look blurry, you have trouble reading small print, or you find it difficult to focus on objects at a distance, these changes can signal that your prescription may need to be updated. Sudden or dramatic changes in vision can also be a symptom of more serious conditions, such as retinal detachment, cataracts, or glaucoma, and should be addressed immediately.
Frequent Headaches
Headaches can be more than just a nuisance—they can also be a sign of eye strain. If you find yourself experiencing frequent headaches, especially after spending long hours in front of a computer or reading, it might be due to an uncorrected vision problem. Eye strain occurs when your eyes are overworked, often due to poor lighting, improper glasses or contacts, or the need for a new prescription. An eye exam can help determine the cause and provide the necessary solutions to relieve the discomfort.
Difficulty Seeing at Night
As we age, it is not uncommon to have trouble seeing at night, especially when driving. However, if you notice that your night vision has worsened significantly, it could indicate a problem such as cataracts or vitamin A deficiency. Night blindness, or nyctalopia, can make driving at night dangerous and should be evaluated by an eye care professional to determine the underlying cause.
Eye Pain or Discomfort
Pain or discomfort in your eyes is a clear sign that something is wrong. Whether it is a sharp pain, a dull ache, or a feeling of pressure, these symptoms could indicate a range of issues, from dry eye syndrome to more serious conditions like glaucoma or an eye infection. Redness, swelling, or sensitivity to light are additional signs that require immediate attention. Don’t ignore these symptoms—early intervention can prevent more severe complications.
Floaters or Flashing Lights
Seeing floaters—tiny spots or cobweb-like shapes that drift across your field of vision—is common, especially as you age. If you notice a sudden increase in the number of floaters, or if they are accompanied by flashing lights, it could be a sign of retinal detachment, which is a medical emergency. You should come in for an immediate evaluation with our eye care team to prevent irreversible damage to your eye health and vision.
Double Vision
Experiencing double vision can be disorienting and is often a sign of a serious underlying issue. Double vision can be caused by several factors, including issues with the cornea, lens, or eye muscles, and can be linked to conditions such as cataracts, stroke, or neurological disorders. If you experience double vision, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to identify and address the cause.
Your eyes are a vital part of your overall health, and paying attention to the signs they give you is crucial. Whether it is a change in vision, persistent headaches, or any other symptoms mentioned, requesting regular eye exams is the best way to maintain your eye health and catch potential issues early. Don't wait until it is too late—if you are experiencing any of these signs, contact our optometrists to request an appointment.