Other Eye Conditions

General Eye Care

As there are a number of conditions which can affect the eyes, and since some of them can cause irreversible loss of vision without other symptoms, it is important to have an eye examination periodically. We recommend a complete examination yearly for anyone over age 60 and for anyone who has diabetes. For others, an examination every 2-3 years is usually sufficient if there are no active eye problems. If you wear contact lenses, it is a good idea to be checked every 6-12 months to be sure the lenses are working well and not likely to cause any other problems.

For general eye care when all you need is glasses or a complete eye exam, an optometrist or an ophthalmologist (Eye MD) can evaluate and treat you. An optometrist is trained in the prescribing and making of glasses and can also do a complete eye examination and treat straightforward self-limited problems such as minor infections and allergies. An ophthalmologist has more extensive training than an optometrist, and has earned a medical degree in general medicine before specializing in the eyes. The ophthalmologist can do everything the optometrist does, plus perform surgery and care for complex medical problems in the eyes such as glaucoma, cataract, diabetic eye disease, severe infections, etc.

If you or someone you know is at risk for eye trouble, or isn't seeing as well as they should, do them a favor and let them know it's important to have the eyes checked since most problems are far easier to treat when they're caught early.