August is National Eye Exam Month

August is National Eye Exam Month, a month dedicated to the importance of eye health and safety. 

You may think you have healthy eyes and have no symptoms of vision problems, but if you are between the ages of 40 and 65, you should have your vision checked every 2-4 years; and at age 65+ every 1-2 years.  Some individuals may have a family history of eye disease or a chronic illness that can affect your vision.  This puts you at a greater risk of vision problems, and therefore it is vital that you get your eyes checked more often than most.

Seniors are prone to blurred vision, eye irritation and more.  Symptoms like this occur because the muscles in the eye become weaker.  Consult your doctor if you experience:

1. Blurred vision with glasses
2. Extremely sensitive to light
3. Consistent eye pain
4. Red Eyes
5. Burning sensation
6. Constant watering
7. Black spots in sight.

Not only is August National Eye Exam Month, but it is Cataracts Awareness Month.  People over the age of 55 should be very cautious of Cataracts, an eye disease that clouds the lens of the eyes and can lead to vision loss.  Those who have Cataracts Disease may experience, extremely blurry vision, a glare, colors that may appear faded and double vision.

If you would like to receive a free eye exam, check out EyeCare America to see if you qualify!  For more information, go to EyeCareAmerica.org

There are two programs available through EyeCare America

1. The Seniors program connects eligible seniors 65 and older with local volunteer ophthalmologists who provide a medical eye exam at no out-of-pocket cost, and up to one year of follow-up care for any condition diagnosed during the initial exam, for the physician services.
2. The Glaucoma program provides a glaucoma eye exam at no cost to those who are eligible and uninsured. Those who are eligible and insured are billed normal office procedure, and responsible for any co-payments. (This is an awareness program to provide a baseline glaucoma eye exam to those who may not be aware they are at increased risk). 

Also check out this inspirational story about an Olympic competitor and her vision issues!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/terezinha-guilhermina-brazil_us_573f36f9e4b0613b512a1551

Have a great week and get your vision exam scheduled!