Eye Care Specialists

What Are Common Risk Factors for Vision Loss?

Check with your eye care specialist to see how often you should have a complete eye exam if you have any of the following risk factors:

Family history of glaucoma, macular degeneration, or other eye problems. For example, if you have a brother or sister with glaucoma, you have a five-time greater risk of developing the disease.
African American heritage, which puts you at greater risk for glaucoma
Diabetes. Diabetic eye disease can only be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination. Pupil dilation (enlargement with drops) is necessary to best view the back of the eye to check for early signs of retinopathy, such as microaneurysms (tiny blister-like outcroppings on retinal blood vessels that can bulge and leak), before noticeable vision loss occurs. National health and eye organizations strongly recommend annual dilated exams for diabetics, as well as when they become pregnant or experience changes in vision.
Steroid use, which increases your risk for cataracts and other problems
Previous eye injuries

What Are the Symptoms of Possible Eye Problems?

In addition to regular eye exams, contact an eye care specialist if you experience any eye conditions, such as:

Loss of, blurriness or double vision
Pain in or around the eye
Flashes of light
Sensitivity to bright light
Seeing floaters, spots or webs
Continual eye redness
Lines appearing distorted or wavy
Excessive tear production
Dry eyes with itching and burning
Difficulty seeing at night

When Was Your Last Eye Exam?

Remember, the best way to protect your vision is to schedule regular, thorough, dilated eye exams to check for hidden signs of sight-threatening conditions. Ask yourself and your family members—"When was your last eye exam?" If it was more than two years ago, it's time to pick up the phone.

For more information or a comprehensive examination . . .

Since 1985, Eye Care Specialists has provided comprehensive medical, surgical and laser care for virtually every eye condition to more than 121,000 people in southeastern Wisconsin. If you would like detailed booklets/handouts on cataracts, diabetic eye disease, dry eyes, flashes & floaters, glaucoma, macular degeneration, or other eye-related topics, please contact our Communications & Education Department at 414-321-7035. To schedule a comprehensive eye evaluation, call one of our three convenient Milwaukee-area locations shown at the top of this web page.