Can An Appointment With Your Ophthalmologist Prevent Your Vision Loss?

If you are concerned about the rampant vision loss that is still too common in Canada and throughout the world, you will be pleased to learn that you may be able to protect your vision with as little as one appointment every few years with your ophthalmologist. Young adults in good health with no extra risk factors or vision problems may only need this appointment at a place like Blink Eyewear every ten years.   

What Sets An Ophthalmologist Apart From Other Eye Doctors?

It can be confusing to be sure that you are seeing the right type of eye doctor, but you may find it easier to remember that an eye doctor is unique among other eye professionals, in that they are trained both medically and surgically to provide care, Therefore, they can not only test for and diagnosis common vision stealers like diabetic retinopathy, both types of macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts, they can also provide the surgical procedures to cure or slow down the damage those illnesses cause.

What Risk Factors Would Require More Frequent Checkups?

If you suffer from diabetes, there is a higher chance of eye problems. You are probably aware that if you lack adequate control of the disease or you have had frequent high or low blood glucose levels, you are more prone to complications and eventually, vision loss. Unfortunately, thousands of diabetics needlessly lose part or all of their vision each year, because they do not seek care in time to prevent it, even though so many diabetics are aware of the link between their illness and vision loss.  

In addition, if you or a close relative have suffered from eye conditions or injuries, such as those previously mentioned , you should see your ophthalmologist more often. Other risk factors include:

• Being 41 years of age or older

• Of African descent 

• Of Hispanic descent

• Suffering from a thyroid disorder or malfunction         

It is also important to remember that although after your 41st birthday it is suggested that you be screened by an ophthalmologist more often, your visits will continue to be closer together  after that, as you age.  

In conclusion,  it is often helpful to see your optician as something of a one-place-shop,because they provide the eye exams to diagnose any visual abnormalities, surgically correct many issues and follow-up with a prescription for corrective lenses. Fortunately, the comprehensive care they provide allows both the time you need to heal and an accurate diagnosis of  improved vision after the necessary amount of time has passed. 

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