Why a Dilated Eye Exam Should Be Part of Your Annual Checkup

Regular medical checkups are essential for maintaining overall health and catching any underlying diseases early on. However, many people forget to include their eyes in these checkups. A dilated eye exam should be a crucial part of your annual checkup, and here’s why.

A dilated eye exam is a comprehensive procedure that involves the use of specialized drops that dilate your pupils, allowing your eye doctor to view your retina and optic nerve more clearly. During the exam, your doctor will check for any signs of eye diseases such as glaucoma, macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy.

Often, many patients may have no symptoms or discomfort, so a dilated eye exam is crucial for catching any underlying problems that could result in vision loss without proper intervention.

Dr. Dolan from 2020 Vision in Rochester Hills, MI, emphasizes the importance of incorporating dilated eye exams into a patient’s annual checkup. He explains that many eye diseases, such as glaucoma, can be asymptomatic, and having a routine dilated eye exam can detect the disease early when treatment can be most effective.

Additionally, patients with certain medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure have a significantly higher risk of developing serious eye problems. With the use of a dilated eye exam, eye doctors can detect early signs of vision loss and work alongside a patient’s primary care physician to coordinate further medical management.

In conclusion, taking care of your eyesight is just as crucial as taking care of your overall health. A dilated eye exam can help identify any underlying eye problems that may be asymptomatic, and an early diagnosis could result in a better prognosis. Don’t forget to make time for a dilated eye exam at your next annual check-up, and contact Dr. Dolan at 2020 Vision in Rochester Hills, MI, to schedule an appointment or to learn more at 248-375-0040.