National Eye Exam Month

Get your eyes checked to be a vision of good health.

You may think you need an eye exam only when it’s time to update your eyewear prescription. As we go about our daily lives, we often take our vision for granted. However, it is important to remember that our eyes are an essential part of our overall health. That's why it's crucial to get a yearly eye exam.

Many people assume that if they can see well, they don't need an eye exam. However, there are many eye conditions that can develop without any noticeable symptoms. For example, glaucoma is a condition that can cause irreversible damage to the optic nerve, leading to blindness. This condition can develop slowly over time, and without an eye exam, it can go undiagnosed until it's too late.

Besides measuring your vision, regular eye exams can help identify early signs of certain chronic health conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and high cholesterol. For example, diabetes can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision loss. An eye exam can detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy, which can help prevent further damage.

A yearly eye exam is an important part of maintaining your overall health. It can detect eye conditions and other health issues early on, which can help prevent further damage and ensure that you receive the treatment you need. So, don't forget to schedule your yearly eye exam, especially if you have vision insurance. Be sure to take full advantage of this benefit – your eyes (and your overall health) will thank you for it!

For more information, check out this article and short video from VSP, MetLife’s vision insurance partner.