Are your eyes feeling more strained than usual lately? Can’t remember the last time you updated your eyeglasses or contact lens prescription? You may need a comprehensive eye exam to get your vision back on track. Read on to learn the far-reaching importance of regular eye exams and up-to-date eyewear prescriptions.
The High Cost of Blurry Vision
Have you been squinting more frequently when working on the computer or struggling to read road signs and text messages? If so, it’s likely your current eyewear prescription is out of date. Blurred vision is the number one sign it’s time for an eye exam.
According to a 2022 study by the College of Optometrists, 53% of UK adults fail to get their eyes tested every two years, as recommended. Many people unknowingly endure worsening vision for months or years before seeking care. They may brush off eyestrain, headaches, and squinting as just part of getting older or spending too much time on digital devices.
However, refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism affect around 1 in 2 people in the UK. Without the proper prescription lenses, these extremely common vision issues can hinder daily activities and lead to eye fatigue, headaches, and neck/shoulder pain from straining to see clearly.
More Than Just Blurred Vision
Beyond vision correction, comprehensive eye exams are crucial for detecting serious eye diseases and conditions early, when they are most treatable. Some vision-threatening problems an optometrist looks for include:
- Glaucoma – This group of diseases damages the optic nerve, causing gradual vision loss without early treatment.
- Cataracts – Clouding of the eye’s lens that can severely impair vision if not removed surgically.
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration – Causes loss of sharp, central vision vital for reading, driving, and recognising faces.
- Diabetic Retinopathy – Uncontrolled diabetes can damage blood vessels in the retina, potentially leading to blindness.
While these eye conditions often start without obvious symptoms, a dilated eye exam can spot them before permanent vision loss occurs and monitor for progression.
A Window to Overall Health
Regular eye exams shouldn’t just be about glasses and contact lenses. Your eyes can provide important clues about other aspects of your health as well. By examining the blood vessels and structures within the eye itself, optometrists can detect signs of:
- Diabetes – Leaky blood vessels and swelling may be among the first signs.
- High Blood Pressure – Narrow or twisted blood vessels could indicate hypertension.
- High Cholesterol – Plaque buildup may be visible in retinal blood vessels.
- Brain Tumours or Aneurysms – Growth can cause changes in vision or increased pressure.
In fact, according to BMJ research, one in five people in the UK has an undiagnosed health issue discovered during a routine eye exam – ranging from vitamin deficiencies to life-threatening conditions. Getting regular comprehensive eye exams can quite literally allow your optometrist to see into your overall health status.
Clear Vision Starts Here | Book Your Eye Exam
With potential impacts ranging from daily discomforts to permanent vision loss or undetected health issues, there are simply too many risks in delaying your next eye exam. Why put up with blurry vision, headaches, and eye fatigue any longer?
At Lauder and Rees, our experienced optometrists provide comprehensive eye exams using cutting-edge digital imaging technology. We’ll check for refractive errors and update your eyeglass/contact prescription, screen for eye diseases and systemic health conditions, and make personalised recommendations to support your overall eye health.
Don’t wait until your blurry vision disrupts your work, studies, driving abilities, or enjoyment of daily activities. See your world more clearly again by booking an appointment at Lauder and Rees today. Call 020 7262 2514 or schedule online now to take the first step towards healthier eyes and vision.