In NYC, residents take control over their eye care needs by visiting an optician. Most eye care professionals require patients to acquire an eye exam at least every two years. However, some medical conditions such as diabetes may require them to receive an exam every year.
What Conditions are Evaluated?
The first and the most obvious condition for which the optician checks is refractive error. This error designates how the patient’s vision is impaired. It determines if they are far or nearsighted. It also identifies an astigmatism. The eye doctor provides the patient with information about their vision and treatment option. For example, they explain whether eyeglasses, contacts, or if refractive surgery is the best opportunity.
Glaucoma and Retinopathy
Glaucoma and retinopathy are devastating conditions that could cause blindness. In the early stages of these diseases, the patient is less likely to experience any symptoms. This is why it is vital for patients to acquire a routine eye exam. It is during these examinations only that these diseases are identified at a treatable stage.
Amblyopia or Lazy Eye
Amblyopia is a condition that is discovered during infancy. It prevents the proper visual development of the eye. This condition will affect the child’s vision if it isn’t treated. The condition could lead to legal blindness and other visual disabilities. An optician in NYC prepares the patient for the corrective surgery needed for this condition. It enables the doctor to tighten the muscle to realign the eye.
Vision Screenings Versus Complete Exam
A vision screening evaluates the patient’s vision only. They don’t evaluate their eyes to determine if they have any eye-related diseases. Patients who receive vision screenings only remain at risk of developing conditions that could hinder their vision. While a vision screening will help them initially, it won’t prevent them from losing their sight.
NYC residents should take advantage of routine eye exams. Most major vision insurance covers the cost of the exam. Patients with conditions such as diabetes may receive these exams every year. To learn more about these benefits, contact an Optician in NYC today and schedule an appointment.
