Answers to the Top 10 Questions Patients Ask About Their Eye Health

At Fillmore Eye Clinic, we know how important your vision is to your quality of life. Our patients often come to us with similar concerns about their eyes and vision. To help you stay informed, we’ve gathered the top 10 most common eye health questions we hear—and the answers you need to know.

1. How often should I get an eye exam?

For most adults, a comprehensive eye exam is recommended every one to two years. After age 50, yearly exams are especially important, even if you aren’t experiencing vision problems. Regular checkups allow us to detect early signs of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration before they cause permanent damage.

2. What are the early signs of vision problems?

Blurry vision, frequent eye strain, double vision, halos around lights, and difficulty seeing at night can all be early warning signs. If you notice sudden changes, such as flashes of light or dark spots in your vision, schedule an exam right away.

3. Does diabetes affect my eyes?

Yes. Diabetes can cause diabetic retinopathy, a condition that damages the blood vessels in your retina. It can also increase your risk of cataracts and glaucoma. Regular dilated eye exams are crucial for detecting these problems early.

4. Can diet really improve eye health?

Absolutely. Nutrient-rich foods such as leafy greens, fish high in omega-3s, citrus fruits, nuts, and colorful vegetables can help protect your eyes from age-related conditions. Vitamins like A, C, E, zinc, and lutein are particularly beneficial for your vision.

5. How much screen time is too much?

Extended screen use can cause digital eye strain, leading to headaches, dryness, and blurred vision. A good rule of thumb is the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

6. Are sunglasses really necessary?

Yes! Sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays protect your eyes from harmful radiation. Over time, UV damage can increase your risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and growths on the eye. Choose quality lenses that cover your eyes completely, and wear them year-round—even on cloudy days.

7. What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure. It usually develops slowly and without obvious symptoms until vision loss occurs. Regular eye exams are the only way to detect glaucoma early.

8. Can eye exercises improve my vision?

While eye exercises can help reduce eye strain, they do not cure nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. The best way to maintain healthy vision is to keep up with exams, wear prescribed corrective lenses, and follow your doctor’s recommendations.

9. Is vision loss a normal part of aging?

Mild changes in vision, like needing reading glasses, are common with age. However, vision loss is not an inevitable part of aging. Many age-related conditions can be managed or treated when caught early, helping you maintain your independence and quality of life.

10. When should I be concerned about eye pain?

Eye pain, sudden vision changes, flashes of light, or a shadow across your vision should never be ignored. These symptoms can indicate serious conditions such as a detached retina, acute glaucoma, or infection. Seek immediate care if you notice these warning signs.

Your eyes are one of your most valuable assets, and taking care of them is essential to living life to the fullest. Regular exams, healthy lifestyle choices, and early intervention can make all the difference in preserving your vision.

Have questions about your eye health? Schedule an appointment at Fillmore Eye Clinic today—our experienced team is here to provide the answers and care you need.