If you’re reading this, you’ve probably had an eye exam at least once in your life.
Most people think of eye exams as important for detecting vision difficulties, diseases of the eyes, and prescribing corrective lenses. And while eye exams are important for those reasons, they are also essential for diagnosing overall health.
According to Dr. Julia Nemiroff of Retina and Eye Clinic of Palm Beach Gardens, numerous diseases of the body can be diagnosed from an eye exam, such as:
- Stroke
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Allergies
- Multiple Sclerosis
There is even progress being made in detecting early onset Alzheimer’s Disease.
The eyes are known as the windows to the soul, and while that may be true, they are certainly windows into the overall vitality of the body.
If you are overdue for an eye exam, I would encourage you to go see your ophthalmologist as soon as possible. If you are on the East Coast of Florida, go visit Dr. Nemiroff!
What’s the Difference?
- Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who provide full eye care, such as giving you a complete eye exam, prescribing corrective lenses, diagnosing and treating complex eye diseases, and performing eye surgery.
- Optometrists provide many of the same services as ophthalmologists, such as evaluating your vision, prescribing corrective lenses, diagnosing common eye disorders and treating selected eye diseases with drugs. If you have a complex eye problem or need surgery, your doctor can refer you to an ophthalmologist.
Opticians. Opticians fill prescriptions for eyeglasses, including assembling, fitting and selling them. Some opticians also sell contact lenses. Opticians do not provide eye health evaluations.
