Why Your Eyes Are Important
Our eyes are one of our most valuable senses, yet many of us overlook the importance of regular eye exams until a problem arises. With over 13 million Australians living with chronic eye conditions and vision loss often preventable through early detection, caring for our eyes should be a top priority. In this article, we’ll explore why your eyes deserve regular attention and how you can protect your vision for the future.
Fremantle Herald Feature: How Important Are Your Eyes?
Read our full article at the Fremantle Herald here: https://heraldonlinejournal.com/2024/10/04/feature-how-important-are-your-eyes/
Why your eyes are important
Your eyes are incredibly important because they play a crucial role in daily life, and losing vision can have a much greater impact than other health issues like dental problems. Despite this, many people neglect regular eye exams, assuming their vision is fine. Regular check-ups are essential, as over 13 million Australians have chronic eye conditions, many of which can be prevented or treated with early detection. Prioritising eye health ensures that vision issues are caught early, helping to avoid serious, often irreversible, damage.
How common are chronic eye conditions in Australia?
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, over 13 million people in Australia have one or more long-term eye conditions. These include common issues like cataracts and macular degeneration. Even children are affected, with 12% of kids aged 0-14 reporting chronic eye conditions, and this number is likely to increase due to increased screen time.
Why is it important to visit an optometrist regularly, even if I think my vision is fine?
Many people assume that if they can see clearly, there are no problems with their eye health. However, some eye conditions don’t present obvious symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Regular eye exams focus on maintaining the overall health of your eyes, not just prescribing glasses, helping to detect potential issues early.
Are children at risk for eye conditions too?
Yes, eye conditions aren’t limited to adults. In Australia, 12% of children aged 0-14 report having chronic eye conditions. The rise in screen time and indoor activities is likely contributing to an increase in vision-related issues among children. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and treatment.
What are the risks of not having regular eye exams?
Skipping eye exams can lead to missed early diagnoses of conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, all of which can cause vision loss. Research shows that 90% of vision loss is avoidable or treatable with early detection, making regular eye check-ups essential for maintaining healthy vision.
How often should I get my eyes tested?
It’s recommend to get your eyes tested at least every year or two years. It can be more frequent if recommended by an optometrist or if you have a visual concern. However, research from Optometry Australia found that 13% of Australians have never had an eye exam, with others skipping it due to cost, fear, or the belief that their vision is perfect. Regular testing is key to catching eye problems early.
How Can For Eyes Optometrist Help
At For Eyes Optometrist, we’re dedicated to safeguarding the health of your eyes through comprehensive and personalised care. Our experienced team of Fremantle optometrists provides thorough eye examinations that go beyond just checking your vision. We focus on early detection of common eye conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, ensuring that any issues are addressed before they impact your quality of life. Whether it’s your first eye test Perth or you’re coming in for a routine check-up, we offer the latest in optical technology and tailored advice to help you maintain clear, healthy vision for years to come.
