Eye checkups are incredibly important as they help diagnose common eye-related disorders such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataract in their early stages. Frequent visits to an ophthalmologist can keep eye-related diseases and infections at bay. However, it is normal to have questions before and after an eye exam. Sorting out one’s concerns helps in the preparation and better management of vision health. Here are a few important questions one must ask an ophthalmologist.

Important questions to ask the ophthalmologist

What tests will I be undergoing today?
Typically, an eye test or an eye exam is a test of the patient’s vision. It usually includes the reading out of numbers and alphabets off a chart. However, this chart is often placed at a distance. So, when one struggles to read, the ophthalmologist detects refractive errors and suggests contact lenses or eyeglasses, according to the individual’s preference.

But in rare cases, one can also be suggested to undergo further diagnostic tests, especially when risk factors such as high blood pressure and heart disease are involved.

What are some easy ways I can care for my eyes?
Generally, as a person age, they become more susceptible to eye problems. Hence, one must ask the ophthalmologist how to care for one’s eyes at home. In most cases, the health expert may suggest lifestyle modifications and changes to the meal plan to ensure optimum nutrition. Nutritional changes involve eating healthy foods such as spinach, kale, lemon, grapefruit, and orange. In addition, the healthcare professional may also advise one to wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses when stepping outside to avoid the risk of sun damage.

Do eye drops have any side effects?
Some eye examinations require the pupil to be dilated. In such scenarios, the doctor may suggest using certain eye drops to ensure proper dilation. So, in such situations, it’s best to ask the doctor about the short-term and long-term side effects of using eye drops. For instance, some drops may cause temporary blurriness.

How often should I schedule eye exams?
Most doctors advise patients to get an eye exam every 1-2 years. However, individuals aged 60 or above are at an increased risk of age-related vision problems such as cataracts and macular degeneration. In such cases, more eye exams can be advised.

In addition to the above, one can also enquire about potential at-risk diseases and their symptoms to look out for.