Blog:The Role of an Eye Doctor in Preventative Care and Maintaining Eye Health
When most people think about visiting the eye doctor, they often associate it with getting a new prescription for glasses or contacts. But optometrists play a much larger role in your overall health - particularly when it comes to preventative care and long-term vision preservation.
The eyes are a window into your overall health. Many systemic conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and even autoimmune diseases, can first present signs in the eye. Regular eye exams allow your optometrist to detect these issues early, sometimes before symptoms even appear. Early detection can lead to more effective treatment and reduce the risk of vision loss or complications.
At Swan City Eye Care, our comprehensive eye exams go beyond checking your vision. Dr. Garibay assesses your eye pressure, retinal health, and screen for conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. These evaluations help us establish a baseline for your eye health and monitor for any changes over time.
Preventative care isn’t just for adults. Children should have regular eye exams to ensure proper vision development and catch issues that may affect learning and behavior. One growing concern in pediatric eye care is myopia (nearsightedness), which is increasing at an alarming rate. Through early detection and myopia management strategies, optometrists can help slow the progression of myopia and protect your child’s long-term vision.
As we age, our risk for eye diseases increases, making it even more important to stay on top of routine eye care. Conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and dry eye syndrome become more common and can significantly impact quality of life if left untreated. Your optometrist can tailor a care plan specific to your needs, lifestyle, and health history to help manage these conditions and preserve your vision.
In addition to clinical care, Dr. Garibay can provide guidance on protecting your vision from everyday risks. Whether it’s discussing digital eye strain, UV protection, nutrition, or proper contact lens hygiene, we can help you build healthy habits that support long-term visual wellness.
Your eyes deserve the same level of proactive care as the rest of your body. By partnering with Swan City Eye Care, you can take a preventative approach to protect your vision and overall health.
Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with Swan City Eye Care and take the first step toward optimal vision and eye health. Visit our office in Lakeland, Florida, or call (863) 323-7525 to book an appointment today.