As per the American Association of Ophthalmology, adults who wear glasses or contact lenses and adults who are over 60 years should visit their eye care specialist every year or as suggested by the doctor. If the person doesn’t require any vision correction, then a person between 18 and 60 years should visit the doctor once every 2 years.
This is because through regular and thorough examination the doctor can diagnose silent diseases such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and other eye conditions in its early stage. These conditions do not have clear initial symptoms and are hard to diagnose without thorough check up.
Mild twitching of eyelids is a common phenomenon which can be irritating. It is generally caused due to lack of sleep, anxiety, increased stress and excessive consumption of caffeine. Rest, discontinuation of smoking and caffeine and gentle massaging of your eye can help in relieving these symptoms.
Eye examination is very important in young children. If one notices that his or her child is having difficulty in seeing objects like blackboards or television, eye rubbing, watering, or squinting it indicates that the child might have a refractive error. Abnormal watering, discharge or white reflex in eye should also be brought to the notice of your ophthalmologist.
There is no predetermined schedule for changing glasses or contacts. It is necessary to change your prescription only when it no longer provide adequate correction. However, it is still a good idea to have regular eye examinations.
Eye floaters are tiny specks and spots that keep floating in your field of vision. These are annoying, but usually harmless. These occur when tiny pieces of the gel-like vitreous of your eyes break loose. However, if you notice flashing spots, then you should immediately consult an ophthalmologist.
The tears in your eyes keep them lubricated and moist. That keeps your eyes comfortable. Dry eyes are caused when your eyes are not producing enough tears. You may notice a blurred vision, light sensitivity, redness, and itching in your eyes. Any disbalance in your tear-flow system can cause dry eyes. Other causes include natural ageing process, conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and collagen vascular diseases; less blinking or staring at computer screens or any other object for a long time without blinking.