What Can a Comprehensive Eye Exam Detect?

Jun 1, 2024 | Eye Exams

When was the last time you had an eye exam? In-person eye exams with an optometrist are more important than you might think. A comprehensive eye exam is about much more than just checking your vision with an eye chart. During the exam, our optometrist will perform a series of tests to evaluate the overall health of your eyes. Here are just some of the conditions our eye doctor may detect during a comprehensive eye exam: 

Refractive errors 

One of the most obvious things that a comprehensive eye exam can detect is refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. These conditions occur when the shape of your eye doesn’t bend light properly onto the retina, leading to blurry vision. By identifying these issues early on, our eye doctor can prescribe corrective lenses to improve your vision and prevent further strain on your eyes. 

Glaucoma 

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it typically has no symptoms in its early stages. This disease causes vision loss by damaging the optic nerve, which carries signals from your eyes to your brain. Using advanced diagnostic technology, our eye doctor can detect early signs of glaucoma during an eye exam and recommend treatment to prevent vision loss. 

Macular degeneration  

Macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults and occurs when the macula—the part of the retina responsible for central vision—slowly breaks down over time. Our eye doctor can identify early signs of macular degeneration and recommend lifestyle changes or treatments to slow its progression and prevent further damage. 

Cataracts 

Cataracts are a very common issue as people get older. They are cloudy areas that form on the natural lenses of your eyes. At first, you may not notice symptoms. However, over time, cataracts may cause blurry or hazy vision, poor night vision, and light sensitivity. The best way to detect cataracts is through a comprehensive eye exam with a qualified optometrist. 

Diabetic eye disease 

If you have diabetes, you’re at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that affects blood vessels in the retina. Diabetic retinopathy can lead to vision loss if not managed properly. You are also more likely to develop cataracts and glaucoma at an earlier age. During an eye exam, our eye doctor will look for signs of retinal damage such as microaneurysms, hemorrhages, and swelling. By monitoring your eyes closely and controlling your blood sugar levels, you can reduce the risk of developing diabetic eye disease. 

Other health conditions 

Believe it or not, an eye exam can also reveal signs of underlying systemic health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and even certain types of cancer. The blood vessels in your eyes can tell your eye doctor a lot about your overall health. Damage to these blood vessels can signal potential issues elsewhere in the body. By catching these warning signs early on, you can seek appropriate medical care and prevent more serious complications down the road. 

In conclusion, a comprehensive eye exam is not just about checking your vision—it’s also about protecting your overall eye health. By scheduling regular exams with your eye doctor, you can detect conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration early on when they are most treatable. Remember that prevention is key when it comes to maintaining healthy eyesight for years to come! Contact us today at Lemoncelli Eyecare to schedule your next eye exam in Nashville, Tennessee with our experienced optometrist.