Newswise — May is Healthy Vision Month and the American Academy of Ophthalmology urges Americans to do what they can to prevent vision loss. Early detection and treatment of eye conditions and diseases is imperative to good vision at every stage of life. Pay attention to warning signs and visit your ophthalmologist regularly.
The Academy recommends:"¢ Before age 5Toddlers should be screened for common childhood eye problems, such as strabismus (crossed eyes) and amblyopia (lazy eye), as well as refractive errors such as nearsightedness and farsightedness. Children should see an ophthalmologist younger than age 5 if there is a family history of childhood vision problems or if they appear to have wandering or crossed eyes. Early detection and treatment of various problems can prevent vision loss."¢ Ages 6 to 19Most young people have healthy eyes. However, if you experience any eye problems such as visual changes, pain, flashes of light, excessive tearing, and dry eyes or if you should sustain an eye injury, see an Eye M.D. immediately."¢ Ages 20 to 29Take preventive action by having at least one examination as a young adult. "¢ Ages 30 to 39Many eye diseases and problems can be prevented with early treatment. Two examinations are recommended during these years. "¢ Ages 40 to 65Vision changes are normal as we grow older. Schedule an exam every two to four years."¢ Over age 65Older adults should be examined at least every one to two years for cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other eye conditions. Early detection and treatment of these ailments can prevent or slow vision loss.
Some people may be at higher risk for eye-related diseases and will need to see an Eye M.D. more often than recommended above. People with diabetes should have a dilated eye exam at least once a year. African-Americans over the age of 40 and people with a family history of eye problems will also need to schedule examinations more frequently. Check with your Eye M.D. if you fall into one of these categories.
Don't let you or your family be robbed of precious vision. Protect your sight!
The American Academy of Ophthalmology is the world's largest association of eye physicians and surgeons—Eye M.D.s—with more than 27,000 members. For more information about eye health care, visit the Academy's partner Web site at http://www.medem.com/eyemd. To find an Eye M.D. in your area, visit the Academy's Web site at http://www.aao.org.
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