top of page

Do I really need an eye exam? 

The short answer is yes, absolutely!  Why?  Because a comprehensive eye exam is an essential part of preventative healthcare that is all too often overlooked.  We like to think of it as going to see your primary care doctor for an annual checkup.  You may not have any symptoms but disease processes could be starting and early discovery is key to a positive long-term outcome in many conditions.  

​

During your eye exam we will assess your overall eye health, screen for common vision problems and eye diseases and ensure that your glasses prescription is as accurate as possible to help you reach your full visual potential.  Not only that, but we want to ensure that your visual system is operating comfortably and without undue stress and uneccessary effort on your part.   

​

Beyond that, as the eye is the only place in the eye to directly observe nerve tissue and blood vessels without overlying tissue we can even uncover or monitor health conditions you might not even relate to the eyes, conditions like strokes, high blood pressure, diabetes and autoimmune disorders among others. 

 

The Cook Family Eyecare team is devoted to improving and protecting your eye health and vision and providing you with a snapshot of your overall health as seen through the eyes.  

​

​

Eye Test Glasses
iStock-184873635.jpg
aoalogo.jpeg

So when should you have an eye exam? 

The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends annual eye exams for all adults.  If you are at high risk more often might be suggested.  Dr. Cook recommends children always get their eyes checked before pre-school or kindergarten and then every year before school starts again.  

 

You might be considered "high risk" if. . . 

​

  • You have a family history of eye disease such a macular degeneration, glaucoma, corneal dystrophies or degenerations, cancer, autoimmune disorders, etc.  

  • You have a history of diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, or other systemic health conditions that can affect the eyes.  

  • You take medications that may have ocular side effects.

  • You work in a position that is very visually demanding or in an environment that poses risks to your eyes.  

  • You have poor vision in one eye. 

  • You have a high prescription.

  • You wear contact lenses.

  • You participate in boxing or knife throwing contests.  Just seeing if you're still awake.  

bottom of page