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6 signs you need to get your eyes checked
When was the last time you had an eye test? If you answered more than two years ago, it’s time to book in. In Australia, more than half of us have some sort of long-term eye condition, and our risk of developing vision problems only grows with age.
While one eye test every two years is generally enough for most people, there are exceptions to the rule. If you experience any of the following, it’s time to book in.
- Sudden blurry vision or difficulty focussing – This could be indicative of a more serious health condition and requires immediate attention. If the issue comes and goes or is limited to one eye, it’s time to organise an appointment with your optometrist.
- Sudden vision disturbances – Floaters, flashes of lights or partly obstructed vision could indicate a serious problem in the retina like a hole, tear or detachment. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate attention or risk losing your vision altogether.
- Gradual blurry vision – The most common eye conditions are long- and short-sightedness, and gradual blurring of eyesight is the red flag to look out for. If you’re slowly finding it difficult to read up close (or far away), arrange an eye exam.
- Headaches – Suffering regular, painful headaches is often one of the first signs of short- or long-sightedness due to the strain put on your eyes by squinting.
- Sudden sensitivity to light – If you suddenly find yourself cringing every time you step outside or into a bright room, it may be a sign of an eye condition – or even an infection.
- Itchiness, redness or discharge – Is your eye red, itchy, inflamed and producing discharge? It’s likely that you’re suffering a nasty eye infection. Visit your GP or optometrist as soon as possible for efficient treatment options.
Have you ever had vision problems? What symptoms did you experience? Tell us in the comments below.
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