Do you have 20/20 vision?  How about 20/40?  20/80?  Not sure?  If you answered yes to any of these questions, keep reading to learn why you need to get your annual routine eye exam.

Can you read this line?

During your annual eye exam, your doctor will use a Snellen chart to test your visual acuity.  This will determine whether or not you need corrective lenses.  But what you may not know is that your doctor is also looking for other vision impairments and health risks.

Diseases such as prediabetes, diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol can all be detected by examining your eyes.  Your eye doctor can also see at a wide range of ailments or diseases that affect your vision such as dry eyes or glaucoma.  If these disorders are detected early, your doctor may refer you to a medical doctor to help manage and/or treat the condition.

Do I need an eye exam every year?

It is recommended that you have your routine eye exam every year.  For children under the age of 18 and adults with vision correction needs, an annual eye exam will ensure there are no changes to your vision or eye health.  Adults over the age of 18 without vision correction needs, can opt to have their eye exam every other year.

So, when was your last eye exam?  If your answer was “more than a year ago” or “I can’t remember,” it’s time to make your appointment.  Visit cecvision.com/search to find a CEC provider near you.

Information received through CEC vision care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician, or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

CEC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of VSP Vision.

Sources: American Optometric Association (AOA), American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), The Vision Council (TVC), National Eye Institute (NEI), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).