Eye Health Resources

When to See an Eye Doctor

Schedule an Appointment Soon If:

• Gradual vision changes or blurring
• Difficulty seeing at night or in low light
• Persistent dry eyes or irritation
• Frequent headaches with vision use
• Double vision
• Halos around lights
• Eye redness that doesn't improve
• Discharge from the eye
• Eyelid swelling or drooping
• Spots or floaters that concern you

Regular Eye Exam Schedule

Even without symptoms, regular exams are important:

• Ages 20-39: Every 2-3 years (if no risk factors)
• Ages 40-54: Every 2 years
• Ages 55-64: Every 1-2 years
• Ages 65+: Annually

More Frequent Exams If You Have:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Family history of eye disease
• Previous eye injury or surgery
• Taking medications that affect eyes
• Wearing contact lenses

Types of Eye Care Professionals

Ophthalmologist

Medical doctor (MD or DO) specializing in eye care. Can:

• Diagnose and treat all eye conditions
• Perform eye surgery
• Prescribe medications
• Provide comprehensive eye exams
• Prescribe glasses and contact lenses

Optometrist

Doctor of Optometry (OD). Can:

• Provide comprehensive eye exams
• Diagnose and treat many eye conditions
• Prescribe glasses and contact lenses
• Prescribe medications (in most states)
• Provide pre- and post-operative care

Optician

Trained professional who:

• Fills prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses
• Fits and adjusts eyewear
• Does not perform eye exams or diagnose conditions

Preparing for Your Eye Exam

Bring With You:

• Current glasses and/or contact lenses
• List of medications and supplements
• Insurance information
• Family eye health history
• List of symptoms or concerns

Questions to Ask:

• What is my current vision status?
• Do I have any eye conditions or risk factors?
• How often should I have eye exams?
• Are there lifestyle changes I should make?
• What symptoms should prompt me to call?

Symptom Tracking

If you're experiencing vision issues, track:

• When symptoms started
• How often they occur
• What makes them better or worse
• Any associated symptoms (headache, pain, etc.)
• Impact on daily activities

Trusted Resources

For additional information, consult these authoritative sources:

• American Academy of Ophthalmology: aao.org
• American Optometric Association: aoa.org
• National Eye Institute: nei.nih.gov
• Prevent Blindness: preventblindness.org

Insurance and Cost

Eye care coverage varies:

• Check if your health insurance includes vision coverage
• Many employers offer separate vision insurance
• Medicare covers some eye exams and treatments
• Ask about payment plans if needed
• Some community health centers offer low-cost eye care