Out of all of our organs our eyes are an amazing and unique work of art.  The ability to see well and have healthy functioning of our eyes is not to be taken for granted.  Yet vision impairment and blindness among U.S. adults ages 40 or older will double in the next 35 years according to a study published May 19, 2016 in JAMA Opthalmology.  It is estimated that by 2050, two million people will be legally blind, about 16 million have vision problems that can be corrected, and about seven million will have vision problems that can’t be corrected. 

The best advice to avoid serious eye issues is to get a comprehensive, dilated eye exam.  A basic regular visit to the optometrist without dilating the eyes makes it difficult for them to see the back of the eye.  When the eyes are dilated, the pupil widens and allows the optometrist to see much more than possible in a normal eye exam, mainly the optic nerve, the retina, and the macula.

What is a dilated eye exam

A dilated eye exam is painless and takes just a few extra minutes to perform.  The optometrist will place dilating eye drops containing medication to enlarge the pupil helping them to detect signs of eye conditions that could potentially lead to vision loss.  By catching these signs at an early stage, they can be treated as quickly as possible avoiding possible vision loss.

When the eyes are dilated, the optic nerve can be seen for diagnosing glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) that would be very difficult to diagnosis without a dilated eye exam.  This same exam can also find retinal tears or detachments and ocular tumors. 

Who should get a dilated eye exam

The National Eye Institute recommends all individuals 60 or older to have an annual comprehensive, dilated eye exam.  It is recommended for African Americans who have a higher risk of glaucoma, to start at age 40.

Individuals between the ages of 40-54 should have a comprehensive, dilated eye exam every two to four years and those ages 55-60, every one to three years. 

For individuals with diabetes, the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that type 1 diabetics have their first eye exam within five years of diagnosis.  Those with type 2 diabetes should have their eye exam at the time of diagnosis. 

Summary

If you are over the age of 40 and have never had a comprehensive, dilated eye exam, it is time to have one.  This test is very important for revealing the status of your optic nerve and retina and is crucial for preventing and treating eye conditions potentially leading to vision loss.  Take advantage of it as a tool for keeping your eyes healthy with a clear view of the world.