Your eyes are one of the most important parts of your body; therefore, neglecting optical care can potentially have severe consequences. Rubbing your eyes is a harmful habit that can further aggravate an infection or astigmatism (a condition marked by blurred vision).
If there is a history of conditions such as glaucoma or diabetes in your family, it’s especially crucial for you to undergo an eye exam, especially as you approach your 40s and 50s.
Here are X signs you may need to receive an eye exam from a reputable ophthalmologist.
- Blurry Vision And Difficulties With Concentration
If many objects and text gradually begin to appear blurry, your eyesight (in at least one eye) is likely suffering. Contact a reputable ophthalmologist or optometrist for a vision exam.
- Squinting
Most people, including optics experts, agree that straining your eyes – or squinting – to read signs or view text or images on a screen – is a clear indication of a need for vision aids (i.e. glasses or contacts). Holding a book or newspaper further away from your face is also a sign of vision issues. Squinting combined with an eye turn (also known as a “lazy eye”) Myopia, or nearsightedness, remains common among many people in the United States, both young and old. According to publication Retina Today, myopia is the primary cause of visual impairment among children globally. In 2010, approximately 1.9 billion people (27% of the world’s population) were believed to suffer from this condition and 70 million of these individuals had a more severe form of myopia.
These figures are expected to increase substantially over the coming years.
- Sensitivity To Light And Difficulty Seeing At Night
Much like squinting, sensitivity to light is often a clear sign of a need to get your eyes checked, as is difficulty seeing road signs and other similar objects at night. If you experience flashes of light, you should seek help immediately (within 24 hours).
- An Eye Infection
If your eyelids begin to swell, become itchy or red, you may have an infection. If the whites of your eyes begin to gradually turn pink or if you experience a discharge, these are also signs of infection.
- Not Having Had An Eye Exam In 2+ Years
If you haven’t visited an ophthalmologist in two or more years, you should make an appointment with one, especially if you are aged 40 or older.
Contact The Experts At NJ Eye Center
Speak to the experienced professionals at the New Jersey Eye Center for more information about when you should undergo an eye exam. Founded by experienced ophthalmologist Dr. Joseph Dello Russo in 1967, the NJ Eye Center is a walk-in care facility where a licensed optician can provide you with new glasses in less than 20 minutes. We have experience with cataract surgery, LASIK surgery, glaucoma treatment, and retina disorders. Call us at (201) 374-8900 to learn more.
