The Importance of Regular Eye Tests

How Often Should You Get Your Eyes Tested?

We know they’re important, but how often should you have an eye test? The NHS recommends that you should book in for an eye test every two years. However, if your optometrist or ophthalmic practitioner recommends you should get your eyes tested more regularly, you may not have to wait as long for each test. Private eye tests are also available to purchase from various practitioners if you are ineligible for NHS tests or want to get them more frequently than is deemed necessary.

What Happens in an Eye Test?

Now that you know how often to get an eye test, you probably want to know what actually happens during the appointment and what your optometrist will be checking for.

What Can an Eye Test Detect?

There are various elements of your eye test that will allow your optometrist to check your vision and overall eye health. The eye test most people are familiar with is the ‘vision’ test, which involves reading from a letter chart with various lenses in front of the eye. This is when the optometrist will test your ability to see near and far and determine whether any corrective measures, like contact lenses, glasses, or laser eye surgery are necessary. They’ll also talk to you about any concerns you may have with your eyes or any eye-related family history.

The importance of eye tests extends so much further than just checking for vision problems. The optometrist will also conduct a thorough examination of your eye and its various structures to determine your overall eye health. This exam can detect any problems, like glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration. Eye tests even have the potential to uncover other health conditions beyond eye problems - like diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.

After your comprehensive eye test is complete, your optometrist will be able to give you a complete analysis of your overall eye health. A typical eye test will last from 20 to 30 minutes, although this varies from person to person.

Why Are Regular Eye Tests Important?

Many eye conditions or related health problems may not show symptoms, which is why regular eye tests are so important. These allow optometrists to detect broader health issues, so you can start treatment early. If they find any vision problems during the eye test, you’ll be able to explore options for corrective measures straight away. Implementing the right vision correction option will significantly improve your day-to-day life, as you’ll be able to see clearly and limit eye strain.

Regular eye tests are crucial to protecting your eye health, but there are other measures you can take that may help. These include limiting screen time, quitting smoking, and wearing sunglasses when you’re outside. We’ve all heard the idea that carrots can improve eyesight, and while this isn’t exactly accurate, maintaining a diet of healthy foods can also help to protect your eye health.

Following your eye test, if your optometrist determines that action is required to improve your vision, there are lots of options available. They’ll help you decide what’s best for you, and what next steps to take.