Eye tests play a huge part in making sure your eyes stay healthy. Not only are they important for indicating whether you need to start wearing glasses or need to change your prescription, but also for detecting some common eye conditions such as cataracts, cloudy vision and floaters.
How often should you go for an eye test?
Generally we recommend that you have an eye test at least every two years. At Specsavers Opticas, your eye test is free. However, there are some groups who might need testing more frequently as they are at a higher risk of developing problems with their sight. These include;
- Those aged 60 or over
- Young children
- Those with a family history of eye disease
If you fall into these categories, it’s worth speaking to your optician to find out how often you should have your eyes tested. However, if you notice a change to your vision, fall into a more vulnerable age group, or start experiencing some of the symptoms outlined below — it’s best to request an eye appointment as soon as possible so that we can take a look.
Signs you need an eye test
Anyone can develop problems with their sight, but some groups of people may be at higher risk, including:
Age
Those aged 40 and over who have a family history of glaucoma and those aged 60 or over.
Seeing Halos
Halos are bright circles that appear around light. In some cases they can appear due to light sensitivity at night, however, in an aging eye there can be other causes such as cataracts and some corneal conditions.
Eye strain and headaches
If you find you’re straining your eyes or getting regular headaches when reading, using a computer, or even driving.
Blurred vision
Blurred vision can be caused by a number of different things. In serious cases it can be an indication of medical conditions such as glaucoma or type 2 diabetes.
Dry, red or itchy eye
Dry or red eyes may be caused by staring at a screen without blinking for long periods of time. Comfort drops can help, but if these symptoms continue visit your local Specsavers store.
Floaters
These are small shapes that some people see floating in their field of vision. They can be different shapes and sizes and range from tiny black dots to cloud like spots
Poor short and/or long vision
If you are struggling with poor long and/or short vision.
Medical condition
Diabetes and other medical conditions that could affect your eyesight mean you are more likely to need your eyes tested more often.
Family history
If you have a family history of diabetes, glaucoma, macular degeneration or high blood pressure. Your optician will be able to advise on how many times a year they wish to see you.
If you fall into these categories or are experiencing any of the symptoms above, it is worth requesting an eye appointment or speaking to your optician to find out how often you should have your eyes tested.
Eye care for children: When to book an appointment
Eyes are an important part of a child’s development as they grow up so keeping on top of your child’s eye care is a priority.
However, we know it can be tricky to know when they need an eye test. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to Children’s eyecare that includes a list of symptoms to look out for that could indicate a problem in their eyesight.
The eye test process
An eye test is more than checking your vision, it’s an overall eye health check, inside and out.
Eyes can be affected by a number of conditions which may be picked up early through an eye test, giving it less chance of affecting your vision. Your eye can even indicate signs of general health problems like hypertension and diabetes. Diseases found by an eye test can very rarely be life-threatening, so eye examinations are an important part of your regular health checks.
There are three main parts involved in a typical eye test:
- History and symptoms
- The tests
- Summary and advice
To learn more about what to expect during an eye test, read more on our page.
If you are concerned about your or your child’s eye health, request an appointment with a Specsavers optician to get your eyes tested by a health care professional.