Annual eye exams help you maintain excellent vision and confirm your prescription glasses or contact lenses are working as needed. In addition, eye doctors can uncover general health problems by evaluating your eyes. Here’s a list of conditions that can be diagnosed during an eye exam. 

3 Health Issues Eye Exams Help Identify

1. Diabetes

Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in American adults. High blood sugar can prompt bleeding in the retina, blurry vision, dark strings floating in your field of vision, trouble deciphering colors, or empty patches of sight. If you exhibit a combination of these issues, you may have diabetic retinopathy, and your eye doctor will recommend a visit to your primary care physician.

2. High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure or hypertension can cause issues before you exhibit severe symptoms that prompt a doctor's visit. However, during an eye exam, a vision care professional may be able to identify this disorder. Individuals with high blood pressure can experience retina damage and blurred vision, fluid buildup underneath the retina, and blood vessel blockages that lead to optic nerve damage, all of which could come up during an eye exam.

3. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition defined by chronic joint inflammation, particularly in the hands and feet. This disorder can also cause dry eyes, which can lead to eye infections. If your eye exam shows excessive dryness and inflammation of the iris, this may be a sign of this condition, which needs to be addressed. 

Are you overdue for your annual eye exam? If so, a compassionate and dedicated eye doctor at Comprehensive Eye Care will help. With over three decades of experience, this family-friendly practice has established a top-notch reputation across Franklin County, MO, for preventative care and eye injury treatment. To schedule your first appointment, call this vision center today at (636) 390-3999. For further insight into their specialties and commitment to providing personalized, comprehensive optical service, visit their website.