Do I Need an Eye Exam?

When do I need an eye exam?

If you see the world like this, there's a good chance you need one.

Find out more from a board certified ophthalmologist.

Studies of nursing home patients have shown that 40% of all blindness in this country could be prevented just by having routine, complete eye exams with dilation of the pupils.

For adults, the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends a routine eye exam with dilation of the pupils every 1 to 2 years for people aged 65 or older, and every 2 to 4 years for people aged 20 to 64.

The Academy also recommends that children have their vision screened before 3 months of age, between 6 months and 1 year of age, at 3 years, and at 5 years of age. These screening exams are usually done by a pediatrician, and if anything is abnormal your child should see an ophthalmologist immediately.

THESE RECOMMENDATIONS APPLY ONLY TO PEOPLE WITH NO EYE SYMPTOMS, NO KNOWN EYE DISEASES, AND NO KNOWN RISK FACTORS FOR EYE DISEASES.

Diabetics require at least annual eye exams with dilation. Diabetes is one of the most common causes of blindness in this country. Blindness can often be prevented with examinations and appropriate treatment.

This page last updated 4/28/2008