Do You Need Eye Exams If You Have Good Vision?

Everyone can benefit from an eye exam — even if you have perfect vision. That’s because your eye health is about much more than clear sight.

Here, Dr. Debbie Simon, Dr. Emily Davis, and Dr. Romaya Ahmed share five benefits of eye exams, how often you need one, and how to schedule one at Eye Q Optique. 

1. Early detection can catch potential problems

Serious eye diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment can develop without symptoms in the early stages.

By the time vision changes occur, irreversible damage may already be done. Routine eye exams catch these issues early — often before they affect your vision. For example, untreated glaucoma can lead to blindness, but with early detection, you can get started with medication to lower the pressure in your eyes.

2. Your eye health can hint at other health issues 

Believe it or not, your eye exam can also reveal information about the rest of your body. During an eye exam, your Eye Q Optique doctor can detect red flags for underlying conditions such as:

Thyroid issues

Thyroid issues are notorious for causing issues with weight and energy levels, but your eyes can also reveal that something is going on with your thyroid gland. Some thyroid issues can cause your eyes to bulge out. 

High cholesterol

Elevated cholesterol levels can contribute to several eye changes, including arcus senilis (a blue-gray ring that forms in your eyes), xanthelasmas (yellow bumps), or retinal vein occlusion.

Autoimmune disorders 

Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune disorders can cause eye inflammation. For some people, this can be the first sign that they’re dealing with an autoimmune disorder.

High blood pressure

High blood pressure can damage all of the blood vessels in your body, including your eyes. 

If your Eye Q Optique provider suspects you have high blood pressure, you can seek treatment to lower your blood pressure levels — a task that could save you from a heart attack or stroke.

3. Receive personalized eye health recommendations 

An eye exam isn’t just about checking your vision; it’s also an opportunity to receive personalized advice on maintaining and improving your eye health.

Our team can offer guidance on diet and lifestyle changes that support eye health, such as incorporating specific nutrients or reducing screen time.

4. Address digital strain

Even with perfect vision, your eyes aren’t immune to the strain of using technology. If you’re always on your computer or phone and are struggling with computer vision syndrome, our team can help you manage symptoms like dry eye.

5. Protect your eyes with the right glasses 

Eyewear isn’t just for correcting vision. It can also protect your eyes! 

Your eye exam is also the perfect time to check and make sure that you have all the eyewear you need to protect your eyes. This includes sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, sports glasses, and safety glasses. 

Safety glasses can protect your eyes from corneal abrasions, and if you’re in a high-risk career, these could save your vision. Our team offers a variety of safety glasses, including nonglare and wrap-around styles.

How often do you need an eye exam?

Our team can help you find the right cadence, but in general, this is what you can expect:

Children

The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends a baby’s first eye exam at 6 months, then at age 3, and before starting school. After that, they should have one every 1-2 years.

Adults 18-39

Plan a comprehensive eye exam at least every two years. If you have risk factors for eye issues, such as diabetes, you may need more frequent exams.

Adults 40-64

For low-risk adults in this age category, you can schedule an exam every at least every two years, per AOA guidelines. However, if any vision changes pop up, or if you have concerns about other eye conditions, just give us a call.

Adults 65+

The AOA recommends yearly eye exams for adults in this age category. Presbyopia is common at this age, and if any vision changes occur, we can set you up with reading glasses.

Regardless of how old you are, if you have a family history of eye disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure, you may need more frequent examinations.

What to expect during your eye exam

Here at Eye Q Optique, our comprehensive eye exam evaluates several areas of eye health, Your exam includes:

• Testing visual fields

• Examination of your retina, optic nerve, and other eye structures

• Screening for eye diseases like glaucoma

• Discussing any symptoms or concerns, including lifestyle factors like screen time

If you or your child are due for an eye exam, call the Chicago-area location closest to you. Don’t forget, you can always book online.