Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
We're talking about healthy vision this week on Healthwatch. Previously, we talked about when children and teens should get their eyes examined. But what about adults?
Dr. Wayne Bowman, an ophthalmologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says most adults who don't wear glasses or contact lenses should have their eyes examined every two to three years. After the age of 50, an annual eye exam is recommended, especially for anyone with a family history of glaucoma.
People who wear corrective lenses will need more frequent exams. You should also see a doctor if you notice blurred vision, double vision or a loss of vision. If you struggle to read road signs, have trouble seeing the television or have difficulty reading, you should have your eyes checked. Frequent headaches aren't necessarily a sign of vision problems, unless they come with other symptoms.
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May 2005
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