You may feel that because you have never needed corrective lenses, you do not need to have regular eye exams. This is just not true. The reality is, changes in your eyesight can occur gradually, without you even realizing it. Eye disorders and diseases are also unlikely to be caught early if eye exams are not performed. Every person should have regular eye exams to be certain their eyes are as healthy as the can be. Here are some of the most common disorders eye exams in St Paul MN are able to diagnose.
Testing for Glaucoma
Everyone is at risk for glaucoma as they age. This disease causes fluid to build up in the eye, creating pressure and damaging the optic nerve. To stop the problem before it creates damage, your eye doctor will use eye drops and a tonometry machine to measure the eye pressure. If the level is elevated, additional testing will be needed.
Examining Eye for Cataracts
Cataracts can gradually develop, slowly diminishing your vision. Your optometrist will look for the signs of developing cataracts with the use of a slit lamp. This is a specialized microscope that makes it possible for your eye doctor to see any fissures or discolorations in the eye.
Looking for Retinal Detachment
Eye Exams in St Paul MN are the only way to see if there is any damage to the retina which could lead to a detachment. Seeing dark spots or flashes of light are common signals that tearing is occurring. This is not uncommon, but is can be dangerous because it can lead to a full detachment. It the retina detaches it can cause blindness and will require surgery to repair the damage. Your eye doctor will chemically dilate your eyes to make it possible to examine the retina. This will become a common step in all of your eye exams if any tearing is discovered.
Your eye appointment is not just for getting new glasses or contacts. It is about maintaining and caring for the eyesight you rely on every minute of the day. Make an appointment today to get a full exam for your eyes.
