Most people don't think a regular eye exam could save their life. But the truth is that in many cases, a comprehensive eye exam can detect much more than eye disease.
That's one reason that we at Pittsfield Vision Associates, PC in Pittsfield recommend annual eye exams to all of our patients, even in the absence of visual changes or symptoms. Read on to find out how a routine trip to the optometrist helped preserve Katie Dunn's vision and life!
How an Eye Exam Saved Katie's Life
Katie Dunn, a 30-year old beautician, visited her local eye doctor for a routine eye exam. During the exam, the optometrist noticed certain abnormalities in the back of her eye. Based on these findings, he recommended that she go for an MRI scan.
The MRI results displayed a large tumor that had been growing in her brain and pressing on her optic nerve. After two surgeries to remove the tumor and radiotherapy treatments, Katie is grateful to be doing well!
Katie's doctors and surgeons explained that, had the tumor gone undetected, she could have lost her vision completely and suffered other potentially life-changing health problems.
How Eye Exams Can Detect Other Health Problems
During a comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist may use special dilating drops to widen your pupils, allowing for a better look at the back of your eyes. This can help detect a wide range of problems, including brain [tumors]. [Tumors] located in the brain can often cause changes in the blood vessels of the eyes, and these changes can be detected during a dilated eye exam.
Regular eye exams can also help detect other medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and, more rarely, certain types of cancer. Early detection of these conditions can lead to prompt treatment and better outcomes.
Eye Exams and Other Eye Care Services in Pittsfield
If it's been more than a year since your last visit to the optometrist, we urge you to call Pittsfield Vision Associates, PC to schedule your routine appointment.
Regular eye exams are a crucial part of keeping your eyes healthy and maintaining overall health, so don't delay. Call Pittsfield Vision Associates, PC in Pittsfield today!