Annual eye exams do more than update your glasses — they help protect your long-term vision and overall health. At Lesslie Vision Care, we provide comprehensive eye exams for patients in North Charleston with care tailored to your needs and risks.
How Often Should Adults Get an Eye Exam?
The right schedule depends on your age, vision history, and health risks.
Here’s a simple guide:
- Ages 20–39: Every 2 years if you have no vision problems or risk factors.
- Ages 40 and up: Every year — even if your vision seems fine.
- Wearing glasses or contact lenses: Annually, to keep your prescription accurate and eye health monitored.
- Diabetics: At least once per year, or more often depending on eye findings.
- Family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration: Annual or more frequent exams as recommended.
Vision can change gradually — and some conditions progress silently. Regular exams help catch changes early, often before symptoms develop.
What Can an Eye Exam Detect?
A comprehensive eye exam checks more than just your vision — it can detect both eye-related and systemic health issues early.
Eye conditions we screen for:
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Dry eye disease
- Retinal tears or detachment
Health conditions that may show signs in the eyes:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Autoimmune disease
- High cholesterol
- Thyroid disorders
What Happens During a Comprehensive Eye Exam?
An eye exam at Lesslie Vision Care goes beyond reading letters on a chart. We evaluate:
- Visual acuity: How clearly you see at distance and near
- Refraction: To determine your prescription for glasses or contacts
- Eye muscle function: To check how your eyes work together
- Intraocular pressure: Screening for glaucoma
- Retinal exam: We use advanced tools to look for changes in the retina, macula, and optic nerve
- Front surface health: Checking for dry eye, corneal damage, or infections
This exam helps us detect problems early and tailor recommendations based on your age, vision needs, and health history.
Why Skipping Eye Exams Can Be Risky
Vision problems can come on slowly — and serious eye diseases like glaucoma often have no symptoms in early stages. If left untreated, they can lead to permanent vision loss.
Skipping eye exams may also delay detection of:
- Diabetic eye disease
- Retinal tears or detachment
- Early signs of cataracts
- Systemic issues like high blood pressure or cholesterol
Annual exams keep your prescription current and protect your long-term eye health.
Comprehensive Eye Exams in North Charleston
At Lesslie Vision Care, our eye exams are built around prevention, early detection, and customized care. Whether you wear glasses, contacts, or simply haven’t had an exam in a while, we’re here to keep your vision clear and your eyes healthy.
Schedule your appointment for a comprehensive eye exam and get proactive about your vision care.