When you should see your eye doctor (Ophthalmologist)
The frequency of performing eye screening exams depends on the patient’s age and risk of having an eye disorder. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends the following guidelines:
- Before age 5: Toddlers should be screened for common childhood problems; such as crossed eye, lazy eye, nearsightedness, and farsightedness
- Age 20-29: At least once during this period
- Age 30-39: At least twice during this period
- Age 40: Comprehensive ophthalmic exam for all adults- future frequency of exams determined from this exam
- Age 65 and over: Every one to two years
Individuals at higher risk for eye disease should be examined more often:
- Diabetics (annually)
- African Americans over 40 (glaucoma)
- History of high blood pressure
- Family history of eye disease, or history of
eye injury
See an Eye MD (Ophthalmologist) promptly if you experience:
- Visual changes or eye pain
- Flashes of light
- Floaters (spots) or ghost-like images
- Distorted or wavy lines
- Foreign body
- Chemical injury
- Red eyes
- Dry eyes
- Itching or burning
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