We're so lucky here in Australia where an eye examination with your local optometrist is free. Yes it is, thanks to bulk billing via medicare. So now, there's no excuse. If you have to ask yourself or anyone else this question, odds are you already know the answer. Yes, you REALLY do need to have an eye exam each and every year. For the same reason the oil in your car needs changing every few months to maintain and keep it running, as does your teeth need cleaning and checked every six months to avoid cavities.
12 signs you need to visit an optometrist
You don’t want to take risks when it comes to your eye health. Any type of eye pain or discomfort can make it hard to function—and sometimes, it can be an indicator of a more serious problem, such as an infection or a vision-impairing condition. It is estimated that over 13 million Australians have one or more chronic (long-term) eye conditions, according to self-reported data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2017–18 National Health Survey (NHS). If you’re experiencing one of these symptoms, it’s time to make an appointment with your eye doctor.
- Difficulty seeing at night or while driving
- Red or pink eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurry vision or trouble focusing on objects
- Eye pain
- Diagnosis of a condition that affects the eyes
- Frequent headaches
- Seeing spots or flashes
- Dry eyes
- Tons of tears
- Double vision
- Eye discomfort when staring at a computer
Window to our soul
Our eyes have been called "the window to our soul." It turns out, they also are often a very effective window to our overall health.Did you know that many people first learn they have serious health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and even cancer from — yes, you guessed it — a routine eye exam.
Eye checks for children
Regular eye checks are just as important for children as they are for adults. A child’s learning and development, as well as their behaviour, can be affected by eye or vision problems.The COVID-19 pandemic certainly changed the way children learn, socialise and entertain themselves with many exposed to screens for many hours a day learning, socialising or relaxing in front of the TV. Australian parents are encouraged to have their children’s eyes tested ahead of the new school year, on the back of 2020 which featured significantly increased screen time due to online learning and more time spent at home. (Source: Bupa Health & Care)
Don't put it off — schedule an eye exam today
Even if you think you have perfect vision, an annual eye exam can be one of the best things you can do to protect the overall health and wellness of you and your loved ones.Don't put if off any longer — contact an eye doctor near you for an eye exam today.
Resources
To help you book your eye examination today, here are our pick of nationally recognised Optometrist outlets:-
