One important aspect of eye care is regular visits to your eye doctor. During these appointments, it's essential to communicate any concerning signs or symptoms you may be experiencing. This blog post will discuss some common signs that should prompt you to bring up to your eye doctor during your next visit.

Blurry Vision

One of the most common signs that something may be wrong with your eyes is blurry vision. If you notice that your vision has become blurry, especially if it happens suddenly or worsens over time, it could be a sign of an underlying issue such as refractive errors, cataracts, or even more serious conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration. Be sure to mention any changes in your vision to your eye doctor so they can conduct a thorough examination and provide appropriate treatment.

Eye Pain or Discomfort

Eye pain or discomfort should never be ignored. Whether it's a dull ache, sharp pain, or a feeling of pressure behind the eyes, these symptoms could indicate various problems such as dry eye syndrome, corneal abrasions, infections, or even more severe conditions like uveitis or glaucoma. It's essential to describe the type and location of the pain to your eye doctor so they can determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Sensitivity to Light

If you find yourself squinting in bright light or experiencing discomfort when exposed to light sources such as sunlight or artificial lighting, it could be a sign of sensitivity to light (photophobia). Photophobia can be caused by several conditions, including corneal abrasions, uveitis, migraines, or even neurological disorders. Mention any sensitivity to light you may have been experiencing during your eye exam so your doctor can assess the situation and provide necessary interventions.

Changes in Peripheral Vision

Noticing changes in your peripheral vision could indicate problems with your visual field. Conditions like glaucoma can cause gradual loss of peripheral vision, known as tunnel vision. On the other hand, sudden changes in peripheral vision could be a sign of retinal detachment or other serious conditions that require immediate attention from an eye care professional. If you observe any changes in your peripheral vision, like blind spots or shadowy areas, make sure to inform your eye doctor promptly.

Floaters and Flashes

Seeing floaters (tiny specks that drift across your field of vision) or flashes (brief bursts of light) can be normal for many people; however, the sudden onset of these symptoms accompanied by a significant increase in their number could indicate retinal detachment, a potentially sight-threatening condition requiring urgent medical intervention. Make sure to inform your eye doctor if you experience new floaters and flashes so they can perform a comprehensive examination and determine the appropriate course of action.

Contact a local eye care center to learn more, like Mid-Michigan Eye Care.

Share