Once regarded as a specialist solely for vision correction, optometrists are now on the front lines of identifying a range of serious health conditions—sometimes before symptoms appear elsewhere in the body.
According to Karen Walsh, an optometrist at Specsavers in Rockingham, regular eye tests are crucial not only for maintaining eye health but also for detecting conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis.
“While we recommend a check every two years, I often see patients more frequently,” Walsh tells Starts at 60. “Routine eye exams are an excellent way to spot health issues early, long before they might show symptoms.”
Here are some of the critical health conditions optometrists can detect:
High Blood Pressure
Optometrists can spot signs of high blood pressure during an eye exam. When blood pressure is elevated, the blood vessels in the retina can narrow and leak, restricting blood flow. This can lead to hypertensive retinopathy, a condition that puts pressure on the optic nerve and may result in permanent vision loss if untreated.
“We can observe changes in your blood vessels through the back of the eye,” explains Walsh. “Thickened vessels can indicate high blood pressure, and untreated, they can cause vision-threatening haemorrhages.”
Cardiovascular Disease
Optometrists also examine the blood vessels at the back of the eye to detect signs of cardiovascular disease. Blockages in these vessels can cause temporary visual loss, often linked to undiagnosed high cholesterol or other circulatory issues.
“Without an eye exam, you might experience vision loss without understanding the cause,” Walsh says. Early detection of these issues can help manage underlying cardiovascular health problems with lifestyle changes or medication.
Arthritis
Though most commonly associated with joint pain, arthritis can also affect eye health, causing dry eyes and inflammation. This is particularly true for autoimmune conditions that often accompany arthritis.
“Inflammation in the eye can lead to painful conditions, particularly in the iris,” Walsh notes. Optometrists can manage these symptoms and even prescribe steroids on the spot to relieve inflammation and discomfort.
Diabetes
Diabetic retinopathy is a major concern for those with diabetes, as it involves the damaging of blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to vision loss. Early stages often present no symptoms, making routine eye exams vital for detection.
“If caught early, diabetic retinopathy can be treated to prevent further vision loss,” Walsh explains. “People with diabetes are also more susceptible to developing cataracts and glaucoma, which optometrists monitor closely during routine exams.”
Optometrists are uniquely positioned to identify these health conditions and offer valuable guidance in managing them. Regular eye check-ups can be life-saving, ensuring that not only your vision but also your overall health is carefully monitored. Always discuss any changes or concerns with your optometrist—your eyes may hold the key to catching serious health issues early.
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