Family Eye Care Associates

Your eyes may be a tiny part of your body, but they play an important role in how you experience the world. They help you to detect motion and color, the intuition of facial expressions and body language and see the wonders of your life in three dimensions. Here's what you need to know to keep your peepers in top form.

Essentials exams *

Even if you do not have a problem with your vision, regular eye examinations are essential for healthy eyes, "said Justin L. Gottlieb, MD, a retina specialist and associate professor of ophthalmology at the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics in Madison.

* Who provides eye care?

medical ophthalmologists specializing in eye, provide eye care to all, prescribing corrective lenses, diagnosing and treating eye problems and surgery of the scene. Optometrists assess vision, prescribe corrective lenses and diagnose and treat problems, sometimes the eyes. Opticians fill prescriptions for eyeglasses and contact lenses.

* What happens during an eye examination?

In a review of the standard view, gives the practitioner tests measure visual acuity, or vision, estimated refraction, which determines a person's prescription for glasses or contacts and checks for eye problems . An ophthalmologist also checks eye movement and peripheral vision and examines the front and back of the eye.

"[The ophthalmologists and optometrists] use a slit lamp, which shines with a line of intense light to illuminate the cornea, iris and other structures located at the front of the eye," says Dr. Gottlieb. Special drops dilate the pupil and allow the physician to view the retina and other structures in the back of the eye with an instrument called an ophthalmoscope. Doctors also examine the skin around the eyes.

* When should I undergo a Vision?

If you do not wear glasses or have a family history of eye disease or condition which can affect vision, such as diabetes, an examination both eyes four years between the ages of 40 and 64. From 65, get one each year to two years. If you wear glasses or contacts, ask your eye doctor how often you should undergo an examination. You may need more frequent exams if you have a family history of eye disease or condition that can affect vision. If you are African American, eye exams are more frequent, since the risk of glaucoma is higher.

* Why proper eye care important?

The right corrective lenses can improve your quality of life. More importantly, early diagnosis of eye disease can prevent vision loss.

Make an appointment today for an eye exam. Then you can relax and enjoy the beautiful view around you.


Writer: Barbara Crow
Healthy Lifestyles Âc Medizin, second quarter 2007