August is National Eye Exam Month: Why Your Annual Eye Check Matters
A Vision-Saving Reminder
August is National Eye Exam Month, and it’s more than just a calendar event—it’s a call to action. Too often, people skip their annual eye check simply because their vision seems fine. But many sight-threatening eye diseases, such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, develop silently without early symptoms.
A comprehensive eye exam does more than determine if you need glasses. It’s a window into your overall health, offering insight into chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol—often before they show signs elsewhere in the body.
At SightMD, we’re using August to raise awareness about the critical role of yearly eye exams. Here’s why your eyes—and your health—deserve that appointment.
Why Annual Eye Exams Matter
A comprehensive eye exam, especially one that includes dilation, allows your eye doctor to thoroughly evaluate your vision and eye health. Many conditions show no symptoms in the early stages, making routine exams the best strategy for early detection and timely treatment.
Here are just a few of the conditions a routine eye exam can uncover:
- Glaucoma – Known as the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma causes optic nerve damage with no early symptoms. Early detection can preserve vision before permanent loss occurs.
- Cataracts – These cause clouding of the eye’s natural lens and typically develop with age. Surgery is safe and effective when caught at the right time.
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) – This affects central vision and can seriously impact daily tasks like reading or driving. A dilated exam can detect early warning signs.
- Diabetic Retinopathy – High blood sugar damages retinal blood vessels over time. Without symptoms in early stages, this condition can only be caught with regular exams.
- Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease – Eye doctors can detect changes in retinal blood vessels that suggest high blood pressure or other cardiovascular issues—often before your primary doctor notices.
Bonus benefit: Eye exams aren’t just for detecting disease—they help keep prescriptions current and prevent digital eye strain, especially for those spending long hours in front of screens.
What Happens During a Comprehensive Eye Exam?
If it’s been a while since your last eye appointment, you might wonder what to expect. A thorough exam is non-invasive, quick, and packed with valuable insights.
Here’s what your eye doctor typically includes in a full visit:
- Visual Acuity Test – Measures how well you see at various distances.
- Refraction Assessment – Determines your prescription for glasses or contacts.
- Intraocular Pressure Test – A key screening for glaucoma.
- Slit-Lamp Exam – Examines the front structures of the eye, including the lens and cornea, to spot issues like cataracts or corneal disease.
- Dilated Fundus Exam – Eye drops are used to widen the pupil, giving your doctor a clear view of the retina, optic nerve, and macula—critical for identifying early signs of disease.
- Retinal Imaging (when needed) – Provides high-resolution images of the retina for deeper analysis.
- Discussion of Eye Health & Lifestyle – Your doctor will ask about symptoms, medical history, and risk factors like diabetes, family history, or smoking.
This comprehensive approach ensures nothing is missed, giving you peace of mind and a proactive plan for vision protection.
Your August Action Plan: Make Vision a Priority
Taking care of your eyes starts with one decision—scheduling your annual exam. To celebrate National Eye Exam Month, we’ve created a simple action plan to help you stay on track.
Book your eye exam this August.
Ask for a dilated exam to ensure the most thorough evaluation.
Know your risk profile.
If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease, more frequent exams can prevent major complications.
Spread the word.
Encourage family members—especially aging parents or children starting school—to book their appointments, too.
FAQs: National Eye Exam Month
It’s a public health campaign designed to encourage everyone to get their yearly eye check, helping catch serious vision and health problems early.
It depends on your age and risk factors. Adults under 40 with no risk may go 5–10 years between visits, while older adults or those with health conditions should go annually.
This exam uses special drops to widen your pupils, allowing your eye doctor to closely examine your retina, macula, and optic nerve.
Yes—your eye doctor may see signs of diabetes, high blood pressure, or cholesterol issues during your exam.
Absolutely. Many serious eye conditions are asymptomatic until vision loss has already occurred.
A baseline exam around age 40 is recommended, though earlier if you have vision changes, wear glasses, or have risk factors.
Protect What Matters Most—Your Vision
Your eyes work hard every day. Give them the care they deserve by scheduling your comprehensive eye exam at SightMD this August. From vision clarity to health discovery, one appointment can make all the difference.
Book your comprehensive eye exam at SightMD today—early detection protects your vision and uncovers hidden health issues.
