Ask the Eye Doctor

Vision testing (refraction) is only one part of a comprehensive eye exam. Testing properly the health of the complete eye for eye disease and treating early, will potentially have the greatest long-term impact on a lifetime of excellent vision. You see clearly when the light en-tering the eye is properly focused on the inside back nerve layer (retina) where photorecep-tors pick up the signals and transfer the information to the visual cortex located at the back of the head. Testing thoroughly this whole system is necessary for early detection of eye dis-ease and proper intervention. The most devastating vision loss can come from disorders that have absolutely no early symptoms and can go undetected for many years, resulting in per-manent vision loss.

Many eye disorders can start at any age, early detection is the key in prevention of perma-nent vision loss that can be seen in the elderly population. Macular Degeneration causes devastating vision loss for many in the elderly population and now with the latest imaging technology, can be detected as early as age 50. This allows for early treatment measures and better longterm vision outcomes. Glaucoma is still the leading cause of permanent vi-sion loss. It can start at any age, including young children and has absolutely no early symptoms. Early diagnosis and management can prevent blindness.

All children should have a full eye exam completed no later than age 5. Many states already mandate a comprehensive eye exam before starting kindergarten. Ideally, children should be seen for routine eye care by an eyecare professional by age 2 or 3. Exams can be done even earlier if any specific concerns should arise. Eye and vision development goes through stages that make it much more difficult, if not impossible, to correct some types of vision problems like amblyopia or “lazy eye”, after the age of 7. Seeing children by age 5, allows for adequate treatment time, if needed. Muscle alignment and binocular vision issues can be addressed early to also ensure the best visual function for optimal learning.

Celebrating a wonderful day of collaboration and community with Positive Options. It’s with great joy that they share that they were able to purchase an ultrasound machine for their Allendale location.