When do I see an Ophthalmologist
Before Age 5
Since it is possible for your child to have a serious vision problem without being aware of it, your child should have his or her eyes screened at age 3 and 5 by an eye care professional, primary care provider, family physician, pediatrician or trained screener for eye conditions such as:
If there is a family history of vision problems or if your child appears to have any of the above conditions speak to your Eye Specialist promptly about when and how often your child’s eyes should be examined.
Puberty to Age 39
Most young people have healthy eyes, but still need to take care of their vision by wearing protective eyewear when working in dangerous areas, playing sports, doing woodwork or yard work, working with chemicals or taking part in other activities that could cause eye injury.
Have a complete eye exam at least once between the ages of 20 and 29 and at least twice between the ages of 30 and 39. You should also be aware of symptoms that could indicate a problem. See an Eye Specialist promptly if you experience any eye problems such as:
Ages 40 to 65
Even the young adult and middle age groups can be affected by eye problems, so preventive measures should be taken to protect eyes from injury and detect disease early.
Schedule a comprehensive eye evaluation with your Eye Specialist every two to four years.
Over Age 65
Seniors 65 and older should have comprehensive eye evaluations by their Eye Specialist every one to two years to test for cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration and other eye conditions.
You should have your eyes examined by an ophthalmologist if you have any of these problems: