Everyone needs to see an optometrist at one point in their life. Even those with excellent vision will need to have regular check-ups scheduled with their optometrist to maintain good vision. Although some might require more frequent visits to their optometrist than others, it’s still necessary to determine if it’s time for you to see your optometrist in Houston.
Not sure what optometrists do or why it’s so important to see one?
An optometrist is your eye doctor who’ll diagnose and treat eye diseases, disorders, infections, and any other issues related to your eyes and vision. If you’re not sure if you should talk to your optometrist to schedule an eye appointment, then continue reading below.
Here are a few signs it’s time to see an optometrist.
1. Sudden Double Vision
There are several reasons you may be suffering from double vision. Despite what the specific reason is for your double vision, what’s most important is to correct the issue by seeing your optometrist. Once you schedule your appointment, you’ll optometrist will then be able to diagnose the issue and begin your treatment.
For example, double vision is sometimes caused by diabetes or even hypertension, which affects the muscles that control the eye. However, these aren’t the only reasons why you may be suffering from double vision. It can also be caused by an overactive thyroid gland.
Other more serious issues and trauma are also some causes for concern when noticing double vision. The best thing to do is visit with your optometrist to determine what the cause is and how to correct it.
2. Chemical Exposure
Whenever your eyes are exposed to chemicals, it’s essential to rinse them out with water as soon as possible to help clear the chemicals from the eye or eyes. If you have eyewash available, then you can use eyewash as well. The next step is to contact your optometrist.
After an eye is exposed to a chemical, it only takes about 1-5 minutes before damage can occur. In most situations, chemical exposure only affects the surface level of the eye and doesn’t cause loss of vision, however, chemical exposure is an emergency that needs to be taken seriously.
Some symptoms of a chemical burn to the eye to be on the lookout for are as followed:
- blurry vision
- redness
- burning sensation
- swelling in the eyelids
- stinging
Even with no symptoms, the best decision to make is to speak with your optometrist.
3. Sudden Vision Loss
Sudden vision loss can also be caused by a variety of things. For elderly patients, loss of vision associated with weight loss, jaw pain, headaches, or another illness might be caused by Giant Cell Arteritis. This disease can lead to permanent vision loss if it goes untreated.
Sudden vision loss can also be a sign of a stroke, a bleed behind the eye, or even retinal detachment. Remember, this is not vision loss that’s happened gradually over time. This is a sudden loss of vision unexpected.
To ensure you maintain your eye health and overall health, do be sure to visit your optometrist.
4. Sudden Pain in the Eye
Some pain in one or both eyes isn’t something to panic over if the pain isn’t long-lasting. There are many normal reasons why you might have pain in your eye. When the pain is frequent or long-lasting, that’s when it’s time to see your optometrist.
If the pain is severe, then this is another reason to schedule an appointment. This type of eye pain could be the sign of an eye injury, an eye disease, or an eye infection. Seeing an optometrist when dealing with eye pain is essential because if there’s an injury, disease, or infection, then it needs to be diagnosed and treated promptly.
5. Constant Headaches
Although headaches can be caused by a variety of things, one of the more common reasons for constant headaches is a vision problem. Headaches could be your body’s way of telling you your vision is changing. If you’ve had no luck correcting frequent headaches, then it could be time to speak with your optometrist about how to improve vision and relieve headaches.
Squinting on a regular basis, whether it’s due to a vision issue or the sun, can cause headaches as well.
6. Eye Infections
There are many infections that can affect your eyes. Some common signs of an eye infection are as followed:
- blurred vision
- swelling
- redness
- itching
- watery or dry eyes
You may also notice discharge in the eye, pain, and sensitivity to light. If you’re experiencing a combination of any of these symptoms or one symptom that’s severe and long-lasting, then you’ll want to contact your optometrist. Allergies could also be the cause for these symptoms, but when left untreated can lead to infections.
Speak with your optometrist, receive a diagnosis, and then begin a treatment plan to begin feeling better.
7. Blurred Vision
Blurred vision that happens gradually may go unnoticed. You may begin to lose your vision slowly over time, which can be tracked and hopefully corrected when you seek professional help. Scheduling regular visits with your optometrist will ensure you know exactly where your vision is at all times.
At the first sign of blurred vision, you and your optometrist can begin discovering what the cause might be and how to treat it.
It’s Time to Visit Your Optometrist in Houston
Have you suffered from any of these symptoms listed above? These symptoms are the signs that it’s time to visit your optometrist in Houston. Even if you’re unsure about your decision, it’s always better to make the appointment and have some peace of mind knowing an optometrist has checked your eyes.
At EZ Optical, we’re dedicated to ensuring each patient is comfortable and satisfied. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and begin your journey to healthier eyes.
