Check your eyes

Why it’s important to have your eyes checked

Argus Optical and Sunwear provides a list of signs and symptoms that may indicate a medical emergency or urgent condition that could lead to vision loss over time

1Floaters are generally due to a normal age-related condition called “vitreous degeneration,” which occurs when the eye’s the retina. If you notice a sudden onset immediately to rule out a more serious condition called “retinal detachment.”

2A sudden painful red eye with nausea and vomiting. This may indicate a narrow angle glaucoma attack. This can permanently damage vision in a short period of time and should be treated immediately by your eye doctor.

3Double vision. Many conditions can cause double vision, but, in some cases, it can signal an underlying health emergency such as a stroke. If you have a sudden onset of double vision, see your eye doctor or family physician immediately.

4Sudden blurry vision in one eye. After age 60, your chance of developing a macular hole in the central part of the retina increases. Macular holes can worsen and cause permanent vision loss, so it’s important to visit your eye doctor for diagnosis and prompt treatment.

5Tunnel vision or peripheral vision loss. These may be a sign of glaucoma. Without intervention, peripheral vision loss could continue to worsen and even lead to blindness.

6Central vision loss including distortions such as straight lines appearing wavy may be symptoms caused by macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness among older Bermudians.

7Blind spots in your vision and unexplained blurred vision may be due to diabetic retinopathy. Regular eye exams are important for diabetics, particularly those over age 60. By evaluating your retina, your eye doctor can provide valuable information to your general physician about the control and severity of your diabetes.

8Cloudy and blurred eyesight. Halos around lights at night and/or loss of bright color vision may be due to cataracts. Cataracts tend to worsen gradually over time and are not a medical emergency; however, they should be monitored regularly by your eye doctor.

9Tearing, irritated, or scratchy eyes may be due to dry eye syndrome. Dry eyes are generally not an emergency but may quality of your vision, especially as you grow older and your body produces fewer tears or your tear chemistry changes. Consult your eye doctor for advice about treatments.

ARGUS OPTICAL COMPANY

11 PARLIAMENT STREET HAMILTON HM 12 | HOURS 9AM-5:30PM (441) 292-5452 (441) 292-0097 25 REID STREET HAMILTON | HOURS 9AM-5PM (441) 296-EXAM