Why is it so important to get your annual eye exam? And what even happens once you get there? Spoiler alert: We've got all the info you need. 

Surprise! 

August is National Eye Exam Month! 👁

It’s the perfect time to schedule the comprehensive eye exam that you've probably been putting off for a while now. But there are so many reasons why you should stop putting it off and start taking care of your eyes!

Here are just a few of the things your optometrist will take care of at your annual appointment:

• Determine Prescription: Your eyes change over time. An optometrist can determine if you need eyeglasses or contact lenses, or if you need a stronger prescription to reduce eye strain and help you see better.

• Detect Eye Conditions: An optometrist is also able to spot the early signs of diabetes, high blood pressure, glaucoma, and other eye problems and conditions.
  

• Preventative Care: Many serious eye diseases often have no symptoms. An optometrist will see the early signs of diseases, such as macular degeneration or cataracts. Early detection is important to prevent serious damage in the long run.

• Get Rid of Headaches: If you’ve been having ongoing headaches recently, you’re probably overdue for an eye exam. Often times blue light and eyestrain cause severe headaches. (P.S. You can invest in some blue light blocking glasses to tide you over til you get in to see your doctor!)

• Better Vision: Even if you “think” you have good vision, your optometrist will test it and offer solutions such as eyeglasses and/or contact lenses to help you see even better.

• Help With Allergies: Allergy season comes and goes, but if you’ve experienced allergies and your eyes get red and itchy, your optometrist may be able to prescribe prescription eye drop to help soothe your eyes.

• Answer Your Questions: Of course, it’s important to have your eyes checked to benefit your eyes, but an optometrist can also help answer any questions you may have about your eye health and/or other problems you are having that may be because of your eyes.

Overall, regular eye exams give your eye care professional a chance to help you correct or adapt to vision changes and provide you with tips on caring for your eyes. This National Eye Exam Month, take the time to protect your eyes and make an appointment at your neighborhood optometrist's today.

In the meantime, check out the rest of the Bomber blog to learn more about eye care and different types of lenses. Whether you're looking to learn more about photochromic lenses, degenerative eye issues like cataracts and glaucoma, or just want some summer sunglasses styling tips, we've got you covered. 

Happy Eye Exam Month!