The Eye - Examination [back]
The Importance of an Eye Examination

We rely on our eyes and good eyesight in almost every aspect of our daily lives.

Our eyes do not always let us know that they are unhealthy because there is often no pain and any loss of vision is gradual. Many eye conditions can be picked up during routine eye examinations before you are aware of a problem. In many cases, the earlier problems are picked up, the greater the chance of successful treatment – this is especially true of young children and the elderly.

An eye examination is also a good health check – conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure can be detected by examining the eyes.

During an eye examination we can determine whether you are seeing as well as you could be and can identify whether spectacles or contact lenses are required. Clearer, more comfortable vision can greatly improve your quality of life. For children, clear vision is vital for learning - any uncorrected visual problems may affect school performance.
If you drive, it is vital to check you meet the legal visual requirements.

We normally recommend eye examinations every two years. Children under 16 who do not require a sight correction and those over 70 years of age need to be seen annually. Children under 16 who wear spectacles or contact lenses are usually examined every 6 months.
Your optometrist may advise more regular eye examinations depending on your  medical history, family history and eye health.