Good eye health is essential for seniors to maintain their mobility and independence. Problems with vision can cause a disability affecting the quality of life and wellbeing. Hence, we should never ignore any symptoms related to the eyes. Beyond 40+ years, an eye check-up once a year is recommended. The remedy may start with reading glasses and, with age, can progress to spectacles. In a few cases, cataract surgery or some other form of treatment may be needed. However, if you are already wearing glasses or have had eye surgeries, the check-up frequency may be twice or thrice per year. These are not to be missed, as, at times, ignoring issues can cause severe problems. This is more so if you have diabetes or blood pressure issues. We list down ten signs when you should see an eye doctor without fail.
- Eye fatigue
All of us will be having some eye fatigue nowadays as we are exposed to screens of all kinds for many hours. It could be a phone, TV, laptop, and more. Perse, eye fatigue is normal in such a scenario. Hence, there is a 20/20/20 rule that eye doctors suggest following. This means that if we stare at any screen for 20 minutes, we should consciously look away at something 20 ft away for 20 seconds. Even after we follow this, or if we feel eye fatigue without much screen time and with regular activities, a doctor should be consulted.
- Frequent headaches
Many people suffer from intermittent headaches triggered by various events. One is usually aware of such headaches and reasons; however, beyond this, if you feel frequent headaches, then it is time to visit an ophthalmologist. This could well be a sign of vision issues that need correction.
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- Double vision
Double vision or seeing everything twice in one or both eyes can be a sign of something more serious. The possibilities are dry eye, astigmatism, or even issues with cornea, retina, lens, nerves, or even brain. Hence, this symptom should never be ignored, and an eye test should be sought immediately.
- Blurred vision
At times, we find we are unable to focus and our vision is blurred. Occasionally, it happens if we have a weakness or giddiness. But otherwise, if this persists, it is not a good sign. If you are already using spectacles, blurry vision may indicate that the next check-up is due to a change in the prescription of glasses. In either case, an eye consultation is the best way to sort the issue.
- Night vision issues
Issues with night vision or in low light may just be an indication of ageing eyesight that needs correction. However, it could also be due to cataracts or night blindness which are serious issues needing proper treatment. Only a qualified doctor can diagnose the exact reason to treat this issue.
- Light sensitivity
If you are having trouble adjusting to light transitions, it may well be an indicator of some underlying disease or infection. This needs a proper ophthalmologist consultation for diagnosis and treatment.
- Dry eyes
Dry eyes are a commonly seen symptom across all ages nowadays. These could be due to seasonal allergies or eye fatigue due to prolonged screen exposure. At times, the eyes can become itchy or even you may feel like there is something in the eye. A doctor can easily treat this with some simple eye drops and eye care tips.
- Flashes, spots, bloaters
There are times when we all see some flashes, spots, light, halos, etc., in our vision. Some people also experience wavy vision, wherein they see waves or zig-zag lines around objects they see. When these are not too often, they are quite normal. If it happens often and interferes with our daily life, an eye doctor should be consulted. There are possibilities that it could be indicative of something more serious leading to blindness.
- Pain or pressure
At times, we feel pain in the eye or feel some pressure at the back of the eye. Intense or persistent eye pain or pressure could indicate some serious eye issue. This would need a doctor’s diagnosis and treatment immediately and should not be put off.
- Discolouration
We are aware of sore eye or conjunctivitis wherein the eye becomes red, at times with swelling and some oozing as well. This should be properly treated with the help of an eye doctor and no home remedies should be tried. However, even without any accompanying issues, if discolouration persists for more than a day or two, consult a doctor to figure out if any issues are there.
Most people experience issues with vision as they age. However, we can follow some tips to maintain our eye health. Eye health has a lot to do with diet, exercise, and more.
