A Guide to Everything Eyes: Do I need an Eye Exam?
Most of us out there have to wear glasses, contacts or both at one point in our life. I have worked in the private (meaning not a Walmart, Sam’s Club or Lenscrafters, but for two private doctors who work for themselves) optical industry for about nine years. Do you need an eye exam? How can I pick out glasses that I will love? Facts & myths about contacts. Get these answers and more this week.
******I am not a doctor. These are all my opinions and if you have true eye issues, call your doctor. They can help you get your eyes seeing 20/20. Or if you are having an eye emergency please call your eye doctor or head to an urgent care facility.******
Do I need an eye exam?
Let’s get started with the types of exams.
Comprehensive Exams
A comprehensive eye exam is much more than the portion where the doctor asks you “Which is better 1, or 2?” The doctor also checks for any eye diseases and the overall health of your eyes. Many eye diseases can come on quickly without you even noticing a problem. If you think your eyes have any sort of problem, call your doctor right away.
Eyeglasses Exams
If you are an adult (over 18) it is best to get your eyes examined every year to two years.
Contact Exams
I would suggest if you are wearing contacts see a doctor every year. Some states have laws where you need to have your eyes examined every year if you wear contacts. You may think that your doctor is just trying to get more money out of you. This is not the case. Simply, contacts are a prescribed medical supply. Do you expect your medication prescriptions to be renewed every year if you don’t see the doctor? Normally, this is not the case. Plus there are scary things that can happen if you wear contacts. Contacts can make you more susceptible to getting infections or ulcers, which can lead to loss of vision.
Once you have an infection or ulcer the only way to get rid of it is to visit a doctor, take out your contacts and wear your glasses until you are healed up. You might even need to throw away your contacts because they could become infected as well. Wait to get a new pair until the infection is cleared up.
What should I bring when I come to my eye examination?
- Insurance card if you have vision insurance (check your benefits ahead of time so you can expect what your portion will be. Are there copays? Limits? Your insurance company can give you that info and may be able email it to you.)
- A list of medications
- Family history of ocular and health problems
- Current glasses & contacts
Check back tomorrow for How to Pick Frames!
Hi there!
I’m Emily, a mom and wife with a passion for crafting, celebrating holidays, and creating memorable moments. From Idaho to the world, The Benson Street is a treasure trove of easy, fun DIY projects, delightful printables, and delicious recipes. With over a decade of experience in blogging and a love for all things seasonal, I’m here to share my tips, ideas, and occasional mishaps. Join me in adding a dash of joy and creativity to every day! Read more…
As someone who has worn glasses for decades, I know a thing or two about getting eye exams. I’ve been told that it’s best to get an eye exam every two years if you don’t wear corrective lenses and to get one every year if you do. Likewise, if you have problems with your vision or anything else eye-related, you should probably get a comprehensive exam every other year. Thanks for the article!
This is a really great overview! Eye health is so important and should be monitored carefully! Nice work. Thanks for sharing this!
Hi Emily. I totally agree with you that contact lenses are prescriptions. Like any other prescription, you need to see your doctor regularly to keep getting it. Great point!