2. Why is it important to have a regular eye health examination?

Vision and eye health problems are not always readily evident. The longer treatment is delayed the greater is the increased risk to the patient’s vision, eye and general health.

CHILDREN

Eighty percent of what a child learns is acquired through the visual system. If not diagnosed, a vision problem can contribute to, or be mistaken for a learning disability or behavioural problem. A child’s eyes can be evaluated as early as six months of age. Preschool children should have an examination at age three and then again prior to entering the school system. Children 6 to 18 years should have their eyes examined annually.

A 20/20 vision screening result means that a child can see at 20 feet what the average child should see at 20 feet. A vision screening should NOT take the place of a proper eye examination. An eye examination of a child usually includes: a review of the child’s health and vision history, tests for near-sightedness, farsightedness, colour perception, astigmatism, crossed-eyes, lazy eye, eye co-ordination, focusing ability and depth perception, plus an examination of the health of the eyes.

Until their nineteenth birthday the cost of a child’s eye examinations is currently covered by Alberta Health Care (AHCIP) once per year.

PREGNANCY

As the body changes during pregnancy the increase in hormones can cause temporary eye conditions such as eye dryness & irritation, distorted vision, swelling of the cornea, and contact lenses no longer fitting comfortably. Any changes should be discussed with one’s optometrist. While occasionally eye conditions may indicate a more serious pregnancy -related problem, such as gestational diabetes or hypertension, vision generally returns to normal after delivery.

ADULTS

A full optometric examination will not only determine the health of the eye and its attendant structures, but can also provide early detection of systemic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, arteriosclerosis, heart and neuromuscular disorders. Regular eye exams are important in maintaining overall good physical health. Early detection of eye disease is crucial in maintaining sight into old age. Most types of Glaucoma occur without the presence of any symptoms and can only be detected during an eye examination. It is a condition that can be arrested or slowed but not reversed, and can lead to blindness if left undiagnosed.

Presbyopia is an age-related loss of close-up vision. Retinal Disorders and Macular Degeneration also have a greater chance of developing as we age. Seniors should be especially aware of the importance of maintaining eye health through regular check-ups. At age 65 and over AHCIP covers the cost of an eye examination once every two years.