Many people put off seeing the optometrist until an issue arises. However, these visits should be routine. During an eye exam, a professional will check for changes in your visual health and look for signs of diseases. With the following guide, you'll understand why this service is essential and when you need it.

Why Eye Exams Are Important

Getting an eye exam isn't only important for your visual health; it's vital for keeping up with your overall wellbeing. When an optometrist examines your eyes, they look at the blood vessels. These channels can reveal signs of other conditions and diseases when abnormal, such as cancer and autoimmune diseases. They can also indicate the presence of inflammatory diseases, such as lupus and Lyme disease. 

Other conditions that an optometrist looks for include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, nutritional deficiencies, and diabetes. By catching disorders early, you can receive prompt treatment and avoid more serious complications.

How Often You Should Have Eye Exams

The usual recommendation for visit consistency varies depending on an individual's age. Toddlers should receive an exam to check for common problems, such as crossed or lazy eyes. Children and teenagers need checkups every two years to ensure their vision is accurate, as impaired sight can diminish their performance in school.

Young and middle-aged adults, from about 20 to 55 years old, should visit their doctors every 2 to 4 years to check their vision and general health. However, they need more frequent visits if they have a family history of eye disease or wear prescription glasses or contact lenses. People over 55 should get annual exams, as they are more susceptible to illnesses, and vision can quickly decline after this point.

If you're due for an eye exam, visit Edwin Y. Endo, OD & Associates, in Aiea, HI. These optometrists are yearly recipients of the Best Optometrists award by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, providing eye exams, treatments, and specialized services for Oahu residents. These doctors heavily focus on eye nutrition, teaching their patients how to keep their visual health at its peak as they age. Learn how to maintain your sight on their website, and call (808) 487-5500 to schedule an appointment.