Hidden Health Issues a Comprehensive Eye Exam Can Detect

When you think of an eye exam, you likely associate it with checking your vision or updating your glasses prescription. But a comprehensive eye exam goes far beyond that. At Merrick Avenue Optometry, our detailed evaluations are designed not only to assess your eyesight but also to detect signs of underlying health conditions - some of which may have no symptoms at all in their early stages.
 

What Is a Comprehensive Eye Exam?

A comprehensive eye exam includes much more than reading letters off a chart. Dr. Rooney assesses your overall eye health using advanced diagnostic tools. This includes evaluating the retina, optic nerve, blood vessels, eye pressure, and eye movement, as well as dilation to examine internal structures. This thorough approach allows us to detect a variety of systemic health issues before they become more serious.
 

Health Conditions Often First Detected in an Eye Exam

• Diabetes: Changes in the blood vessels of the retina can be early indicators of diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that can lead to vision loss. An eye exam may reveal these changes even before a patient has been diagnosed with diabetes.
• High Blood Pressure: Hypertension can cause damage to the retina’s blood vessels, known as hypertensive retinopathy.
• High Cholesterol: Signs of high cholesterol may appear as plaques in the retinal blood vessels or as a bluish ring around the cornea, known as arcus senilis.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Certain autoimmune diseases like lupus or multiple sclerosis can cause inflammation in the eye. Optic neuritis, or inflammation of the optic nerve, is often an early sign of these conditions.
• Thyroid Disorders: Thyroid eye disease, commonly linked with hyperthyroidism, can cause bulging eyes, lid retraction, or dry eyes.

Why Early Detection Matters

The eyes are one of the few places in the body where blood vessels and nerves can be directly observed without invasive procedures. That makes regular eye exams a powerful tool in monitoring your overall health. Early detection through a comprehensive eye exam can lead to timely medical interventions, and prevent complications.
 

Take the Next Step Toward Total Health

A comprehensive eye exam is about more than just vision. It is an important part of your overall health care. By examining the eyes in detail, your optometrist can uncover early signs of serious health issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. Regular exams provide peace of mind and play a vital role in maintaining your wellness over time.
 

Contact Merrick Avenue Optometry to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and gain valuable insight into your overall well being. Visit our office in Merrick, New York, or call (516) 200-0241 to book an appointment today.