Why You Need to Have Your Eyes Checked Every Year

Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining your overall eye health and detecting potential vision problems early. At Schmidt Family Eye Care, we believe that an annual eye exam is more than just a prescription check—it's a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health that can prevent serious conditions down the road. Let’s explore why yearly eye exams are crucial, the advanced technology we use, and how our personalized approach ensures the best care for every patient.

What Conditions Are Checked During an Annual Eye Exam?

During an eye exam, your optometrist will check for a variety of conditions that could affect your vision and overall eye health. Some of the key ocular conditions and diseases we look for include:

• Refractive Errors: Conditions like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism can be easily corrected with glasses or contact lenses, but they require regular monitoring to adjust prescriptions as needed. 

• Glaucoma: This condition involves increased pressure in the eye, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. Early detection is crucial because glaucoma often presents no symptoms in its initial stages.

• Macular Degeneration: This age-related condition affects the central part of the retina, which is critical for reading, driving, and recognizing faces. Detecting macular degeneration early can help slow its progression.

• Cataracts: Cataracts cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy, leading to blurred vision. Early detection allows for timely intervention and treatment, such as cataract surgery, to restore clear vision.

• Diabetic Retinopathy: This condition is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection and management to prevent severe vision loss. \

The Role of Advanced Technology in Eye Exams

At Schmidt Family Eye Care, we use the latest technology to provide the most comprehensive eye exams possible. Advanced diagnostic tools allow us to detect eye conditions at their earliest stages when most treatable. Some of the technologies we use include:

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This non-invasive imaging test provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina, allowing us to detect early signs of macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal conditions.

• Digital Retinal Imaging: This technology captures high-resolution images of the back of your eye, helping us monitor changes over time and detect conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration early.

• Visual Field Testing: This test measures your peripheral vision, which can be affected by conditions such as glaucoma. Early detection through visual field testing can prevent further vision loss.

Using our advanced technology, we can detect eye diseases that may not present any symptoms initially, allowing for early intervention and better outcomes.

The Personal Approach of Dr. Dr. Barrett Schmidt

At Schmidt Family Eye Care, we pride ourselves on taking a personal approach to eye care. Dr. Dr. Barrett Schmidt understands that each patient is unique and requires individualized attention. During your comprehensive eye exam, Dr. Dr. Barrett Schmidt takes the time to explain each step of the process, ensuring you understand what is being checked and why it matters.

After the exam, Dr. Dr. Barrett Schmidt will discuss the findings with you in detail, answering any questions you may have and explaining any conditions detected. If any issues are found, Dr. Dr. Barrett Schmidt will outline your options for treatment and work with you to develop a personalized plan that suits your needs and lifestyle.

Schedule Your Annual Eye Exam

Taking care of your eyes is an essential part of maintaining your overall health. At Schmidt Family Eye Care, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care using the latest technology and a personal approach. Don’t wait until you notice a problem—schedule your annual eye exam to ensure your eyes are healthy and functioning at their best. Contact us at 402-704-3020 or visit us in Fremont to book your appointment.