Vision is a vital aspect of everyday life. Imagine going through your day without the ability to see what you are doing or the people you are interacting with. It is a serious situation. Did you know that it is possible to prevent at least 50 percent of the conditions that cause vision loss? That's right—half of the people who lose vision each year could have saved their vision by having a comprehensive eye exam.

Eye health is essential, just like any other body part. Preventive eye care is one of the ways to ensure not only eye health but also overall health.

So, why is it essential to have a routine comprehensive eye exam?

What is a Comprehensive Eye Exam?

A comprehensive eye exam is a series of tests that an eye doctor uses to check the health of your eyes. Each test examines a different aspect of your visual abilities or conditions. The eye doctor will need to know your medical history and your experience with your vision. This information will help them determine which eye exams are a priority. Some of the most common tests in a comprehensive eye exam are:

Visual Acuity Test

Measurements of visual acuity test how well your eyes can see. The eye doctor will use different charts to test your visual acuity. You will need to read the letter on a specific chart at different distances or under other lighting conditions.

Topography/Keratometry

The topography test measures the cornea's curvature through data gathered from reflections of light that the eye doctor will shine on the eye's surface. It is a test that allows the eye doctor to check for any abnormalities in the cornea. It can also fit contact lenses.

Eye Focusing, Teaming, and Movement Testing

Focusing, teaming, and eye movement are critical aspects of how your vision works. For clear vision, your eyes must work together to focus and follow the object through space. These three are crucial visual skills for everyone to develop.

Why is it Important to Have Routine Comprehensive Eye Exams?

Detecting Ocular Issues That May Cause Blindness

As mentioned earlier, it is possible to prevent most ocular conditions that cause blindness. A comprehensive eye exam is an excellent opportunity for the eye doctor to check for any severe condition. Most of these diseases do not present symptoms until they have advanced. Some of them are:
 

• Age-related macular degeneration

• Glaucoma

• Cataracts

• Cancer

• Keratoconus

To Help Maintain Good Vision

When the eye fails to refract light correctly, you will notice changes in your vision. Some people already wear glasses to help them with such visual issues. However, your eyeglasses need annual renewal. Your prescription tends to change as you grow older. So, comprehensive eye exams help you to maintain your vision at the correct level.

Prevent or Diagnose Major Health Conditions

The eyes are the windows into the body. Sometimes, they will show symptoms of severe illnesses before they present in the rest of the body. Eye doctors can diagnose significant diseases through the eyes: hypertension, diabetes, cancer, thyroid disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.

For more on the importance of routine comprehensive eye exams, visit Long View Eye Center at our office in Lewisburg, West Virginia. Call (304) 520-3630 to book an appointment today.