You use your eyes for everything, from looking at a computer for work to staring at someone you love. That’s why it can be a challenge if your eyes feel tired or strained by the end of the day. At Dr. Rehana Manji & Associates, our team understands that it can be easy to dismiss small signs, but they could be your eyes asking for a little attention.
For routine eye exams, vision tests, and the assessment or management of common eye conditions, our optometry team in Liberty Village, Toronto, are great professionals to see.
Signs You May Need an Eye Exam
Your eyes often give subtle hints when they need attention. If you experience any of the following, it might be time for a check-up, especially if you spend a lot of time on screens. Watch out for:
- Frequent headaches
- Blurry or double vision
- Dry, scratchy, or watery eyes
- Trouble with glare or night vision
- Needing to squint to see clearly
What Happens During an Eye Exam
An eye exam is usually a straightforward process to check your vision and eye health. The team can use modern diagnostic technology to help assess your eye health, so you can feel confident in your care.
Vision Tests and Your Prescription
There are tests to check how clearly you see at different distances. They can help determine if you need a new or updated prescription for glasses or contact lenses to correct issues like nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Eye Health Checks
A thorough exam goes beyond just your vision. Optometrists can also look for signs of eye conditions such as glaucoma (a condition involving damage to the optic nerve that sends signals to your brain) or cataracts (an issue with clouding of the eye’s clear lens). This proactive check can help protect your long-term eye health.
Choose the Right Eye Care Professional
You have a few choices when it comes to eye care. The right professional for you depends on your specific needs, from a routine eye exam to more individualized treatment options.
Your Local Optometrist
An optometrist is your primary eye care provider. Many of them can perform comprehensive eye exams, prescribe glasses and contact lenses, and diagnose and manage common eye conditions. For routine care, finding an optometrist in Liberty Village to build a long-term relationship with is a great idea.
The Cost of an Eye Exam
The cost of an eye exam can vary based on where you go and what tests you need. It is helpful to know what may be covered before your appointment.
Provincial Health Coverage
In Canada, many provincial health plans, like Ontario’s OHIP, may cover the cost of eye exams for certain age groups or individuals with specific medical conditions. It is a good idea to check what your provincial plan covers.
Use Your Private Insurance Benefits
Many workplace or private insurance plans include benefits for vision care. These benefits can often help cover the cost of your exam, glasses, or contact lenses.
How Often to Schedule an Eye Exam and Post-Exam Care
Regular eye exams are a key part of your overall health routine. The recommended frequency depends on your age, health, and risk factors for eye-related issues.
Recommendations for Young Adults
If you are a healthy adult between 20 and 39 years old with no vision problems, an exam every 2 years is recommended. However, how often you need an eye exam can change, and your optometrist can provide a personalized schedule based on your visual needs.
Adjustments for Different Ages and Risk Factors
Children and adults over 65 usually require annual exams. More frequent check-ups may also be recommended if you wear contact lenses, have a family history of eye disease, or have a health condition such as diabetes that requires specialized eye exams.
After Your Exam
Once your exam is complete, the team can discuss the results with you. You can get a clear understanding of your eye health and a customized plan for your vision needs. This may involve an updated prescription, exploring options for glasses and lenses, or discussing ways to manage conditions like dry eye.
Schedule Your Next Eye Exam
Your eyes and vision are precious. The team at Dr. Rehana Manji & Associates can help you protect them with a customized plan for your visual needs. Book an eye appointment in Liberty Village to get started.
