Many people when they catch the flu they go to the doctor, so why do individuals who experience changes in their vision neglect to see their local eye doctor? Just like getting your regular physical with your M.D., seeing your optometrist for yearly check-ups or with a change in symptoms is imperative to eye health. Consider these warning signs as crucial indicators to get an eye exam.

80-90% of the population suffers from tension headaches. Some of these headaches can be reduced, if not resolved with a simple vision check. Even if your vision seems normal to you, your correction could be minimal but just enough to aggravate tension headaches. If your M.D. can’t figure out your headaches, give your eye doctor a chance to resolve the problem.

The narrowing of your field of vision or blind spots is an immediate indicator that something is markedly wrong with your vision. The narrowing could be an early indicator of glaucoma which can lead to blindness. Blurring or clouding in your vision is potentially an early indicator of cataracts. Both systems should be immediately addressed. Immediate action can slow the progression of both diseases.

Lastly, see your eye doctor promptly if you have blind spots in your vision. In conjunction with diabetes, blind spots or floaters could be indicators of diabetic retinopathy which left untreated can lead to blindness. If your diabetes is under control the likelihood of acquiring diabetic retinopathy is greatly reduced. Your eye doctor can even provide valuable information regarding the state of your diabetes by examining your retina, leading to better disease management.

An optometrist is an invaluable member of your healthcare team and your vision shouldn’t be treated carelessly. Make sure to book your yearly exam and never hesitate to see your eye doctor for major health and vision changes because they are there to help.