Avoid waiting until the last minute before going for an eye exam. Note, too, that the symptoms of eye problems may show up after an eye exam. Thus, it is vital to know what to notice. It will help you avoid vision loss and ensure you enjoy clear vision for a long time.

Read on for the five signs you might need an eye exam.

A Long Time Before Your Last Exam

It is prudent to start with this one. You should schedule an eye exam if you had one more than two years ago. Also, schedule an exam even if you think any other symptoms you are experiencing are not severe.

The fact that it has been a while since you had an exam could mean you are in danger. You may be witnessing a symptom that is worsening. It may not resolve itself. The more you wait for it to go away by itself, the worse it gets.

Vision Is Getting Worse

You may need an eye exam if your vision is getting worse. You may notice this as it gets hard to read road signs or the texts on your screens. These things can make it difficult for you to go about your daily routines. They can also cause other symptoms like headaches, eyestrain, and fatigue. Schedule an eye exam when you notice the above.

High Risk of Eye Diseases

Schedule regular eye exams if you have a high risk of contracting eye diseases. Some people have a family history or genetic predisposition to getting eye diseases. These diseases may include cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. 

Eye exams are crucial for people with a predisposition to these diseases. They allow for early detection of issues so the doctor can embark on early treatment. Schedule an exam every year if you fall into this category. Avoid taking your health for granted.

Eye Pain

Eye pain is indicative of many issues. Still, your eye doctor has the experience and skills to know which condition ails you. Conditions like ocular tumors and acute angle-closure glaucoma cause too much pain. They can also result in vision loss in a matter of days. Thus, you need to move fast when you notice eye pain. 

Other reasons for eye pain may include having a foreign object in the eye, dry eyes, allergies, and corneal sunburn. Some of these may not seem serious, but they are still a reason to schedule an eye exam as soon as possible. 

Floaters and Flashing Lights

Sometimes, you may see floating circles, squiggles, or lines in your vision field. Although you may see them, these are shadows of microscopic fibers in your vitreous fluid. Seeing a few of these is normal, but when you see more, it is a sign of a severe condition.

When you see the floaters and flashing lights, it is an indication of a retinal tear or detachment. Schedule an eye exam immediately after you notice these two signs together.

For more information on eye exams, visit Bluebonnet Eye Care at our office in San Antonio, Texas. Call (210) 899-2022 to book an appointment today.