Your vision is precious, allowing you to work, read, and communicate effectively with others. Unfortunately, eye diseases can sneak up on even the most careful individual, interfering with their entire life. However, a simple eye exam can help your doctor to diagnose and proactively treat your condition. Here are a few of the issues that routine eye care can catch and handle before they become too big. 

Eye Exams Can Catch These Issues

1. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye disease that is caused by pressure building up in the fluid center of the eye. Eventually, this pressure can damage the optic nerve, causing vision loss. To screen for glaucoma, your doctor will either place a sensitive instrument against the surface of your eye to test the surface pressure, or ask you to sit in front of a special machine that pushes air towards your open eye. If you are positive for glaucoma, your doctor may prescribe medications to lower your eye pressure and protect your vision. 

2. Strabismus 

Sometimes, the eyes are not aligned properly with one another, which can cause one of them to shake when they work together. Although commonly diagnosed in childhood, strabismus can also develop later in life, causing problems like eye fatigue and double vision.

To detect strabismus, your eye doctor will ask you to follow an object across the room. If you have the condition, certain eye surgeries can improve the strength of some eye muscles while relaxing others, allowing you to see normally. 

3. Detached Retinas

Retinal detachment is a medical emergency where the retina physically detaches from the back interior surface of the eye. Marked by debris in the vision field, flashes of light, and reduced side vision, this eye problem can be diagnosed through an emergency exam and treated with surgery. People who are older, severely nearsighted, or have a family history of retinal detachment are most at risk. 

Your vision is important, which is why the professionals at Eyewear Express in Rhinelander, WI, recommend scheduling comprehensive eye exams regularly. In addition to screening for serious vision problems, this eye doctor and his team can also provide you with contacts or eyeglasses that fit your budget and lifestyle. To book your next checkup, reach out to them online or call (715) 365-1515.