Why You Shouldn’t Skip An Eye Examination

You know that slight blurriness when you’re reading, the headaches after too much screen time, or that gritty feeling in your eyes at the end of the day? Most of us only think about our eyes when something feels off. But here’s the thing: waiting until there’s a problem isn’t exactly the best way to take care of your vision, especially if you’re one of the millions rocking contact lenses. That’s why making an eye examination part of your routine is so important.

More than just an eye test

An eye exam isn’t just about figuring out if you need glasses or updating your prescription. It’s like a full health check-up for your eyes. Optometrists look for early signs of conditions like glaucoma (damage to the optic nerve), cataracts (clouding of the lens), or macular degeneration (which causes central vision loss).

Some say your eyes are the windows to your soul. That may or may not be the case, but what’s certain is that they’re windows into your general health. During an eye examination, optometrists can spot indicators of high blood pressure, diabetes, or even certain neurological conditions, making them an important part of your overall healthcare routine.

Health experts in the UK recommend adults have their eyes examined at least every two years or more often if you have existing eye conditions or health factors that need monitoring, and your optometrist has recommended it.

Don’t wait for symptoms

Several eye conditions develop gradually, often without symptoms in the early stages. Regular examinations can catch problems early when treatments are most effective.

Even if your vision feels fine and your contacts seem comfy, there could be changes happening that you’re not aware of. For contact lens wearers, 6-monthly contact lens assessments are usually recommended, but your optometrist can let you know what’s best for you.

Eye exams vs contact lens check-ups

So, what’s the difference between a regular eye exam and a contact lens check-up? Let’s break it down:

• Eye test: This is your standard check-up. It looks at how well you see, how your eyes work together, and your overall eye health. If you need glasses, your optometrist will then be able to provide a prescription.
• Contact lens check-up: This one’s for contact lens wearers (or anyone thinking about trying them). It’s all about making sure your lenses fit properly and aren’t causing any issues. Your optometrist will check your cornea and surrounding tissues, give you tips on lens care, and, if you’re new to lenses, show you how to put them in and take them out.

In the UK, you’ll need a separate contact lens assessment to get a prescription for lenses—it’s not the same as your glasses prescription, as it sits directly on your eye vs on your face.

Why contact lens wearers need separate check-ups

Contact lenses are a fantastic option for those who love the convenience and flexibility they offer. However, because they sit directly on your eye, they do require a little extra care and attention.

Over time, your eyes can change, and lenses that fit perfectly a year ago might not be as comfortable now, or your daily environment may not be suitable for that specific lens type anymore. That’s where regular check-ups come in—they help ensure your lenses are still a great fit and aren’t causing any issues.

Your optometrist will also check for subtle changes to your eye’s surface that you might not notice on your own. Since contact lenses can sometimes reduce oxygen flow to the eye, these check-ups are key to catching and addressing any potential irritation or discomfort early. With the right care, you can enjoy all the benefits of contact lenses while keeping your eyes healthy and happy.

How can we support you?

The Optical Store was founded by opticians with over 30 years of experience, so we definitely know a thing or two about keeping your eyes in top shape! When it comes to quality contact lens brands, prescription accuracy, and swift and accessible service, you can rely on us.

Once you have your up-to-date prescription, you can easily buy contact lenses online at competitive prices with us!