There are many signs that it’s time you need an eye exam. Some signs, such as blurred vision or watery eyes, are more obvious; while others, such as headaches and fatigue, can be more surreptitious and harder to define as originating from a vision problem. Every adult should have an eye test at least once every two years (although a safer bet is every year), while children and seniors require an eye exam every year. And if it’s time for yours, here’s a little piece of advice – Never put it off. Having your yearly check up at your local optometrist is the best way to maintain your eye health and ensure optimal vision. Here’s 10 signs it’s time to book your next eye exam.

HEADACHES

Frequents headaches could be an indication that you’re straining your vision too much and putting undue pressure on your eyes. If you find you’re having to concentrate too hard simply to do basic tasks you need to have your eyes checked.

TIRED EYES

All of us experience tired eyes as a symptom of everyday use, but when it’s a common and persistent problem that occurs after activities like driving and reading, it’s time for an eye exam.

LIGHT SENSITIVITY

Sensitivity to light is a good measure of your eye health. But if your eyes don’t respond to a sudden change of light in the normal way it may be an indication of an eye infection or the symptoms of an eye disorder.

FATIGUE

Fatigue has many causes, and it’s a tricky one to pin down, but fatigue may be due to a disturbance in your ability to focus. The brain and vision work in close harmony, and as with headaches if the eyes are troubled they let the brain, and by association the body, know about it.

BLURRED VISION

Blurred vision could just be temporary, or it could be an indication of a more serious condition, such as glaucoma (damage to the optic nerve), cataracts (clouding of the lens), or signs of age-related macular degeneration. Regular check ups at your optometrist will ensure early detection and treatment, and protect your eyes against serious vision loss.

FLASHES AND FLOATERS

Sudden flashes of light followed by obstruction of vision or floaters in your vision are sure indications of eye trouble and necessitate an immediate trip to the optometrist.

SQUINTING

You squint when your eye has trouble focusing. Squinting changes the shape of your eye to focus more light on the fovea, a small depression in the retina of the eye where visual acuity is highest. If you find yourself squinting a lot you may be nearsighted or farsighted. Glasses or contact lenses can easily correct these very common issues.

WATERY EYES

Watery eyes are a common condition that occur when too many tears are produced or if they can’t drain away. Watery eyes can cause sore or sticky eyes and blurred vision. See your optometrist for help with this problem.

IN THE FAMILY

Genetic factors play a role in many kinds of eye disease, including those diseases that are the leading cause of blindness among infants, children and adults. If you have a family history of blindness, glaucoma, or other eye diseases, regular eye exams help to avoid sight-threatening diseases.

RED EYES

If you experience persistent redness in your eyes, or if you think you may have an object in your eye or a scratch to the lens, or if your eyes hurt for any reason, go and see an optometrist right away.

Seeing is believing. Your eyes are a vital organ helping you to experience life in all its glorious splendour and colour. No concern for them is too little or too much. So make sure to maintain regular and consistent eye health and book your next eye exam with iSight Optometry.

Looking for an Optometrist in Kelowna?

We are a family-friendly practice located in Kelowna, the heart of the beautiful Okanagan Valley. With over 60 years experience, we are always welcoming new patients and are pleased and proud to provide comprehensive, personal, and very up-to-date eyecare to patients of all ages.

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