Health A-Z

When Should You Visit an Optician?

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Unless you're wearing glasses or have recurring eye issues, it’s usually rare to find someone without eye problems visiting an optician. This ignorance is what makes many people end up with severe eye issues. Probably some people with glasses started their lenses-supported eyesight in this way. So, when should you visit an optician?

How Often Should You Make Trips to the Optician?

The ideal question that many people would ask is, "how often should I visit my optician, then?" your eyes would rarely hurt if you have an underlying problem. This makes it essential to make regular visits to your optician, to get tests done to determine if your eyes have any harmful conditions. A recommended timeline for optical tests is annually or after every two years.

Most clinics offer free eye checkups, making the service easily accessible. This should be an encouraging factor and make more people interested in learning about their eye health.

Eye Tests

So, what happens in an eye test when you visit an optician near you? A basic eye test involves checking your eye's capability to perform its duties. You'd be given reading tests to test whether you can read large and tiny letters. Your ability to tolerate normal light will be tested. An eye scan is usually part of the procedure as well. When your optician takes you through the necessary steps, they'll present you with the results.

This will ideally include a thumbs up for good eyesight, an optical prescription for any detected eye problem, or a reference statement for further tests on complicated conditions. Your optician is legally obliged to give you your optical results, so no one should hold that information from you. In case of any complaints, you should address the matter immediately and receive assistance as soon as possible.

It’s vital that you learn that there are different eye healthcare professionals. They include;

·       Dispensing opticians fit contact lenses and glasses about the treatment prescription given.

·       Ophthalmic medical practitioners are medically qualified doctors who specialize in eye care. They examine eyes, diagnose abnormalities, test sight, and prescribe the best corrective lenses.

·       Orthoptists specialize in eye movement disorders and squints.

·       Optometrists are experts in recognizing eye abnormalities. They examine your eye's internal and external structure to detect abnormalities like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

·       Ophthalmologists are eye surgeons or doctors specializing in the surgical and medical care of the visual system and eyes.

Common Eye Symptoms that Require Optician Attention

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There are several alarming eye symptoms that you shouldn't take lightly. Once you experience any of them, you should consider calling your optician immediately and scheduling a checkup. This will determine any eye issue and help you deal with the matter immediately before it escalates.

Some of these symptoms include;

Floaters

You could potentially have a retinal detachment if you spot black specs across your eyes. This is a severe condition, and treatment should be provided within 24 hours. If not, this can result in permanent loss of vision. You should immediately visit your optician if you notice any flashes or floaters across your sight.

Blurred Vision

Sudden blurred vision can indicate possible macular degeneration, cataracts, or glaucoma. These are serious eye problems, but they can all be promptly treated to avoid long-lasting damage. Blurred vision can either affect your entire eyesight or parts of your vision, like peripheral.

Sudden Loss of Vision

Sudden loss of vision can result from damage like nerve or retinal abnormalities. This issue can affect one or both eyes, partially or the entire line of sight. In most cases, sudden loss of vision is a temporary condition. However, if not handled with care, it can cause permanent damage.

Weeping Eyes

Inflamed or blocked tear ducts cause excessive tear production. Eyes usually weep from time to time, but when it’s constant and prolonged, it might signify a serious condition that should be checked.

Migraines and Severe Eye Pain

Eye emergencies such as glaucoma can be characterized by nausea and vomiting, headaches, and severe eye pain. Due to the risk of a damaged optic nerve and raised eye pressure, it's vital that you visit a specialist to treat the problem as soon as possible.

Eyes’ Visible Changes

The eye can get multiple visual changes depending on a few factors. Some expected changes include yellowish eyes, pigmented spots on the iris, and drooping eyelids. An eye examination and evaluation of the changes will determine the root cause and enlighten the expert on a possible underlying medical condition.

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Poor Vision

When you begin to hold objects far or closer to your eyes to read their contents, that is a potential sight issue. You might either be developing short or long-sighted cases. You could probably have presbyopia, an age-related optic condition that causes the elderly to be long-sighted.

Dry, Red, or Itchy Eyes

Dry, red, or itchy eyes can indicate different eye conditions. These are common eye issues that usually subside after a few minutes. However, if they frequently occur, you should consider visiting your optician for a diagnosis.

If You Skipped Your Last Appointment!

Not a symptom, but if your last appointment dates slipped your mind, you should consider booking one soon enough. Regular checkups are essential as the examinations help you know your current eye health and if there is anything to address. This ensures that you’re always aware of where you stand with your sight.

Optical visits are one of the many appointments people often bypass simply because they can see well. Many people would ignore sudden eye symptoms since they are rare and usually go away after a while. Such factors cause many people not to be so cautious of their eye health. While some symptoms are common and treatable, some eye conditions can cause more damage and potentially result in permanent consequences.

It is essential to go for your optical checkups as recommended by your optician to get an accurate report of how your eyes are doing. To schedule your next optical visit, call an optician near you to book a session.