How to know when to have your eyes tested
When it comes to your eyesight, you can never be too careful. To that effect, we have compiled a list of warning signs which can indicate to you when to have your eyes tested.
1.You see that you have difficulty driving at night and seeing street signs
According to local optometrist Minnete Van Heerden this can be an indication of Myopia or nearsightedness. This condition can be corrected with prescription distance spectacles of the correct strength which can be obtained after going for an eye test.
2. If you have red itchy or watery eyes
This can be an indication of the presence of an eye allergy, of dry eye syndrome or a viral or bacterial eye infection. Both dry eye syndrome and various eye allergies can be treated with specialised eye drops.
In cases where the optometrist determines that you have a viral or bacterial eye infection, they may refer you to specialist.Depending on the nature of the infection, you may find yourself having to go to either an ophthalmologist or a general practitioner. The specialist will then devise a treatment plan which may involve antibiotics.
3.If you are seeing spots or flashing lights
According to a local optometrist, this can point to a possible retinal tear or detached retina. It could also point to the presence of floaters.These are pieces of the eye jelly which have broken off inside the eye. In some cases, these floaters can be nothing concerning however in other cases they can point to more serious problems that are related to the retina. If the optometrist discovers that you have a detached retina or a retinal tear, you may be referred to a ophthalmologist for surgery.
4. If you are a diabetic
It is important for people with diabetes to go for regular eye tests, to screen for the presence of retinal bleeding. If retinal bleeding is found, the optometrist will refer you to a ophthalmologist for surgery and treatment. Treatment can involve a combination of laser therapy and injections.
5. If there is any family history of eyesight problems
It is important to go for regular eye tests to screen for the genetic eye conditions which you may inherit as a result of your families’ medical history. Treatment will vary from patient to patient.
6. If you are squinting your eyes to read something or if you have difficulty with reading small print
According to a local optometrist, this can be an indication of Hyperopia (far sightedness). A person with far sightedness will struggle to see objects that are near or close. This condition can be treated with prescription reading glasses.
The information in this article was provided by a local optometrist Minette Van Heerden.
Read more here: Restoring the eyesight of pensioners is his passion
