You may have been encouraged many times to see a dentist or a general practitioner, but rarely do people stress the importance of going to eye doctors. However, our eyes are one of our most important sensory organs.
Taking care of them is just as important as taking care of our teeth or our hearts.
If you need more encouragement, here are signs you need to see an optometrist.
1. Sudden Blurry Vision
We have all had blurry vision multiple times. Being up for too long, staring through a glass, or having just woken up tend to make our vision worse.
If you’re experiencing blurry vision due to those things, you may not have any problem. However, if your blurry vision persists, you need to go to an eye clinic.
2. Eye Pain, Eye Strain, Headaches
Much like a blurry vision, eye pain and eye strain can happen for several reasons. If you’ve had all-nighters for several nights, a good sleep may just fix you.
However, if that’s not the case and your pain persists, you may have an underlying eye problem that needs to be checked.
Persistent headache is also another cause for concern when paired with your eye pain. If you have both, we recommend seeing an optometrist as soon as you’re able.
3. Sensitivity to Sunlight
Another major sign you need to see an optometrist is photosensitivity. While we’re all advised not to look straight at the sun on most days, we can usually handle a bit of blue light.
However, if you’re suddenly unable to stand even a little bit of sunlight or the light from your devices, it may be a good time to check in with an optometrist.
It may also be a good time to invest in good blinds or window tinting, but we suggest you check with a doctor first before you try the vampire route.
4. Dry, Red, and Itchy Eyes
Another obvious sign you need to see an optometrist is you have dry, red, and itchy eyes. These are usually signs that a foreign object may have entered your eyes, or possibly caused by an allergy.
Either way, an optometrist will be able to tell you what is wrong and give you eye drop recommendations to fix the problem. They may also refer you to an allergy speciality if you turn out to have allergies.
5. Flashes of Light or Floaters
Flashes of light or floaters in your vision may sound poetic, but there’s nothing poetic about cataracts, which is something you may have if you’re seeing specks of light in your vision.
In the end, it’s a good idea to see an optometrist so you can catch eye disease early.
Undergoing a routine eye exam has more benefits than simply fitting you in for a new pair of glasses. No matter the reason, seeing an optometrist can help you make sure your eyes are free from any abnormalities and make recommendations if you do have them.
It’s also important to see other specialists for your overall health. Here are some health practitioners in the Edmonton area you may want to check out to make sure you’re in tiptop shape:
