Conventional eye exams are often overlooked, but they are a very basic feature of a thorough, comprehensive health plan. Although many people often undergo a full physical examination, few people often go to an ophthalmologist for an eye exam. The end result is that visual problems are ignored and evolved to more severe conditions than they should. It is estimated that vision-related problems cost the United States up to $5.1 billion annually. Many of these problems can be avoided with early detection, saving billions of dollars annually.
Conventional eye exams can have several components. An ophthalmologic examination is mainly for the detection of visual problems such as low vision [myopia or hyperopia], which is performed by an optometrist. The optometrist is not a real doctor. He can only detect and prescribe the above eye problems [ie, correct prescriptions for glasses, lenses, etc.]. Ophthalmic examinations by optometrists are very cheap. Large retail stores like Wal-Mart offer such eye tests in stores, so you can simply walk in and check your eyes without making an appointment. Normally, you can even order corrective glasses and lenses from an optometrist.
A more thorough eye exam not only measures your vision, but also provides insight into any other vision problems you may have with a trained ophthalmologist [called an ophthalmologist]. These exams are more thorough and essential to maintaining a healthy eye. Ophthalmologists will be able to detect glaucoma, presbyopia, astigmatism, dry eye, etc., and provide medication for them. Many eye-related problems, such as blurred vision, spots in front of the eyes, etc., may be early symptoms of serious diseases such as diabetes and stroke. Regular eye examinations can detect these diseases early.
Going to an ophthalmologist can be quite expensive, which may be one reason why many people tend to ignore their eye health. In addition, most health insurance plans do not adequately cover regular eye exams and other vision-related issues to further treat people. Considering the importance of regular eye exams in maintaining eye health, it is recommended that you have a vision insurance plan in addition to your health plan to cover any vision related issues. Such a vision insurance plan won't let you recover a few dollars a month, but it will eventually save you hundreds of dollars.
Routine eye exams are best performed by an ophthalmologist, not an optometrist, and are an important part of any comprehensive health plan. Regardless of your age, you should visit an ophthalmologist regularly. Older people who are more likely to develop eye diseases than younger people should make special efforts to carry out routine inspections. As computer use increases, instances of vision-related problems are growing, even in young children. This only means that you should complete a complete eye exam every 4-6 months, regardless of your age.
Orignal From: Why do you have a regular eye exam?
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