Your eye doctor must have told you that you need frequent eye exams to detect problems much earlier. However, since you don’t experience any obvious pain, you don’t see the need for an exam. You are missing out! Eye exams aren’t just about your vision — they are also about your overall health.  Here are surprising conditions we may detect during an eye exam at Dr. Rigney Vision.

Brain Tumor

Having a tumor in your brain can put pressure on your eyes. When the swelling extends to the eye, it may compress the optic nerve, which causes vision changes. Distorted vision, loss of vision on one side, and changes in pupil size can be signs of a brain tumor.

Diabetes

Tiny blood vessels at the back of the retina may leak fluids, a symptom of diabetic retinopathy. Sometimes, your eye doctor may be the first person to detect diabetes even before your family doctor does. Diabetic retinopathy is a progressive eye condition, and early detection is essential for preserving your vision.

Hypertension

During a dilated eye exam, we can notice signs of high blood pressure. This condition may damage your optic nerve if not treated promptly. Besides, hypertension isn’t ideal for your health because it can cause headaches, heart disease, kidney damage, and other health complications.

High Cholesterol

If you are aged 40 and below, a yellow or blue ring in the cornea may be a sign of high cholesterol. Also, cholesterol deposits in the retinal blood vessels can indicate high cholesterol levels.

Lupus

If you have chronic dry eye syndrome, lupus could be the culprit. Lupus may also cause swelling of the white part of the eye.

Lyme Disease

This inflammatory disease is transmitted by ticks and can inflame the optic nerve that an optometrist can pick up during an exam. Besides, Lyme disease causes floaters at the onset of the infection.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Eye Health Professionals in Owasso, OK

Looking for a comprehensive eye exam in Owasso, OK? Please schedule an appointment with Dr. Rigney Vision. We offer eye exams and other optometry services to help you achieve your eye health goals.