6 Signs You Need to See an Ophthalmologist
Have you been putting off that eye exam because you’re not sure if you really need one? Many people wait until they experience serious vision problems before scheduling an appointment, but your eyes often give you warning signs long before a condition becomes severe.
Recognizing these signs early can help protect your vision and catch treatable conditions before they progress. Keep reading to learn six signs that indicate it’s time to see an ophthalmologist at Mid Ohio Eye.
What Does an Ophthalmologist Do?
An ophthalmologist is an eye doctor who completes medical school and specialized training in eye care, earning either an MD or DO degree. This training allows them to diagnose and treat the full range of eye conditions, prescribe medications, and perform surgical procedures.
While optometrists, who earn OD degrees, can perform routine eye exams and prescribe corrective lenses, ophthalmologists provide more comprehensive medical and surgical treatment for complex eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal conditions.
The distinction matters when you experience symptoms that might indicate a serious eye condition. Ophthalmologists have the medical training to recognize when an eye problem stems from another health issue, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, and can coordinate your care accordingly.
Here are six signs it’s time to schedule an eye exam with your ophthalmologist:
1. Persistent Eye Pain
If you experience persistent eye pain that lasts more than a day or two, schedule an appointment right away. Eye pain can signal several conditions, from infections to increased pressure inside your eye.
2. Sudden Vision Changes
Sudden changes in your vision, especially blurry vision that comes on quickly, warrant a prompt visit. This could indicate anything from dry eye to a more serious condition, such as posterior vitreous detachment or retinal detachment. Gradual vision changes are often normal as you age, but rapid changes need professional evaluation.
3. New Flashes and Floaters
Seeing new floaters (small spots or strings that drift across your vision) or flashes of light can be a sign of something concerning. While occasional floaters are common, a sudden increase in floaters, especially when combined with flashes of light, could signal a retinal tear or detachment. These symptoms require urgent evaluation to prevent permanent vision loss.
4. Persistent Red or Irritated Eyes
Red or irritated eyes that don’t improve after a few days may indicate conjunctivitis, uveitis, or another inflammatory condition requiring medical treatment. While mild redness from allergies or tiredness usually resolves on its own, persistent redness accompanied by discharge, pain, or light sensitivity needs professional attention.
5. Double Vision
Double vision (diplopia) should never be dismissed. Seeing two images instead of one can result from problems with your eye muscles, cornea, or even neurological issues. Because double vision can signal serious health concerns beyond just your eyes, an ophthalmologist at Mid Ohio Eye can determine the cause and coordinate treatment.
6. Risk Factors for Eye Conditions
Your risk factors also matter. If you’re over 40 and have a family history of eye diseases like glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration, regular ophthalmologist visits become even more important.
These conditions often develop gradually without obvious symptoms until they’ve already caused vision damage. Early detection through comprehensive eye exams allows for treatment that can slow or prevent further vision loss.
Take Action for Your Eye Health
Your eyes give you valuable information about when to seek care. Trust what you’re experiencing and don’t wait for symptoms to worsen before seeing an ophthalmologist. Early intervention makes a significant difference in treating most eye conditions and preserving your vision for years to come.
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Mid Ohio Eye in Columbus, OH, today. Your vision deserves expert care from experienced ophthalmologists who can diagnose, treat, and help you maintain healthy eyes throughout your life.
