Among the many routine healthcare screenings that patients are encouraged to prioritize, there’s one that is too often overlooked: the annual eye exam.

“Eye exams are essential for the screening of potential vision-threatening diseases” says Dr. Elizabeth George, a board-certified Optometry specialist at Watson Clinic Main in Lakeland. “During a routine exam, we assess the structures of the eye, screen for eye diseases, check eye muscle function, and even evaluate peripheral vision. If we notice a change in your vision, we can also provide prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses.”

Here are three common conditions that can be recognized and diagnosed during a routine eye exam:

Cataracts – Although considered a normal change with aging, cataracts often cause significant visual difficulties as they progress. Cataracts are characterized by the natural lens in the eye becoming cloudy. The progression of cataracts is slow & gradual, and a dilated eye exam can detect the presence of the condition early. Minimally invasive surgery can be performed to replace the clouded lens of the eye. This is one of the most commonly performed medical procedures in the United States and boasts a remarkable 95% rate of effectiveness.

Dry Eye Syndrome – The surface of the eye is a complex and sensitive system. When that system becomes imbalanced, dry eye syndrome can occur. There’s a lot of different factors that can contribute to dry eye, but one of the major culprits is prolonged screen time on computers and mobile devices. “We don’t blink as often when we’re focusing on a screen, which can cause the surface of the eye to get irritated and dry over time,” Dr. George explains. “It is essential to take frequent breaks from screen time, which allows the focusing system of the eye to reset.”

Glaucoma – Millions of Americans have glaucoma, but nearly half of them may not realize it. That’s because glaucoma usually does not result in noticeable symptoms until substantial vision loss occurs. Glaucoma occurs when high eye pressure impacts the optic nerve and causes damage over time. When detected early, the progression of glaucoma may be slowed or prevented with prescription eye drops.

Watson Clinic’s skilled Optometrists provide comprehensive eye exams, vision tests, and much more for patients 5 years and older. The department can also offer swift referrals to Watson Clinic’s Ophthalmology department when surgical intervention is needed. To schedule an appointment with any member of Watson Clinic’s Optometry department, call 863-680-7486.

To learn more from Dr. George on the importance of eye exams and the common conditions they can detect, tune in to episode 2 of the Watson Clinic Health Talk podcast by visiting WatsonClinic.com/Podcast.