Unfortunately, there are a number of eye and systemic health conditions which may manifest within the eye without any symptoms. For example, hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes can manifest itself in the eyes as asymptomatic bleeding and changes to the eye vasculature, and can lead to vision loss and even blindness if left unchecked. A comprehensive dilated eye exam is necessary to thoroughly evaluate the eye for these changes related to your systemic health.

In addition to systemic conditions, there are also eye diseases that are painless and asymptomatic in their early stages, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration. I call glaucoma the “thief in the night” because it robs you of your vision while you are unaware of it taking place. Early degeneration changes to your macula may be asymptomatic as well. As such, it is important to have a regular, annual eye exam to screen and detect these eye diseases.

Diabetes is a systemic disease that affects our blood vessels. Our eyes demand a remarkable amount of blood, oxygen, and nutrients to function, so there are numerous blood vessels supplying the eye. As such, any damage to our blood vessels from diabetes can lead to blood vessel leaking or bleeding within the eye. This leakage can lead to swelling within the eye, potentially causing changes to vision, and it can cause permanent vision loss if left untreated.

Our eyes are extremely sensitive to the environment. Watery, irritated, and light sensitive eyes are very commonly associated with dry eye syndrome. If your eyes are not properly moistened and lubricated by your body’s natural tears, you will likely experience one or more of these symptoms. On the other hand, allergies in the eyes typically present with some level of itchiness in addition to the above symptoms. An eye examination will reveal what you may be suffering from, and an appropriate regimen to properly treat and manage your condition.

Yes, a general balanced diet high in vitamins and antioxidants supports good eye and vision health. Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids may improve dry eye signs and symptoms. Eye vitamins such as AREDS and AREDS2 are clinically indicated for patients with macular degeneration.

Protecting your eyes is extremely important to ensuring stable, healthy vision. Eye protection from the sun and UV rays will help reduce the formation of cataracts and other eye conditions. It is also recommended that patients greatly reduce or stop smoking tobacco, which is a risk factor for the development of macular degeneration, an eye condition which can lead to permanent changes in the eye and loss of vision.

For adults age 18-60, the American Optometric Association recommends a comprehensive eye examination every two years for patients with no vision issues and lack any eye or systemic health risk factors. Over the age of 60, an annual comprehensive eye examination is recommended. Risk factors that warrant more frequent eye examinations include patients that have diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of eye diseases such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, or any significant changes in vision or eye symptoms.