» Who should have an eye exam?

• Eye exams are important for everyone, but some groups are at higher risk for eye conditions and should get regular check-ups. Here are some of the people who should prioritize routine eye examinations
  1. Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, or immunodeficiency diseases can impact the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to ophthalmic complications.
  2. If you have a family history of eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration, you may be at a higher risk as these conditions can be hereditary.
  3. For those aged 40 and over, especially individuals 60 and older, the risk of developing eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration increases with age. It is recommended to have an eye exam at least once a year.
  4. Those who experience digital eye strain from prolonged use of computers or mobile phones, or those who work under direct sunlight for extended periods.
  5. Individuals who are regular contact lens users should have their eyes checked to ensure corneal health and reduce the risk of infection.
  6. Individuals taking certain medications, such as steroids or other drugs used to treat specific diseases, as these may have side effects that can affect the eyes.
  7. Children should have their eyes checked at a young age to screen for congenital abnormalities such as strabismus, lazy eye (amblyopia), nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, so that these issues can be corrected promptly.
  8. People with abnormal eye symptoms such as frequent eye pain, headaches, blurry vision, redness, double vision, or tearing should get a thorough examination to determine the underlying cause.

» Frequency of eye examinations

• Infants and toddlers should have their first eye exams at 6 months, 3 years, and before starting school. After that, they should have regular annual check-ups.
• For those under 40, it's recommended to have an eye exam at least every one to two years.
• If you're 40 or older, you should have your eyes checked at least once a year.

For more information, please contact the Eye Center, Building 2, 4th Floor. Tel: 0 2530 2556 ext. 2440, 2441.