If the vision seems blurred, or the eyes are red, irritated, painful or injured, most of us would recognize these symptoms as problems, but perhaps you are among the millions experiencing minor issues with your vision and you're really not sure if it is normal or not.  This short quiz can help you decide if you need professional help. 

     

     The Great American Eye Test

 This quiz is courtesy of the American Optometric Association

Take this simple yes or no test to find out if you or someone in your family should have an eye examination. If you answer "yes" to more than one question, or you have not seen your optometrist in over a year, it's probably time to schedule an appointment. Unique eye and vision conditions exist for seniors, baby boomers, women, and children. This test serves as a quick overview for all populations.  (See additional information for those specific groups.)

Difficulty reading small print, sewing or doing crafts?

Headaches or have tired, burning eyes after reading or working on a computer?

Difficulty seeing at night or seeing street signs while driving?

Irritated, dry, red or sensitive eyes?

Spots, flashes of light, or floaters in your field of vision?

Do you:

Have diabetes?

Have a family history of glaucoma?

Attend school and have difficulty in reading or learning (or have a child who does)?

Have a family history of lazy eye, weak vision, or eye disease?

Handle chemicals, use power tools, or engage in sports that may be
hazardous to your eyes?

      A few questions added by Dr. Phillips

Do you find that you have to squint your eyes to see clearly?

Do your eyes suddenly water, but later feel dry or sting?

Do you have to "force your eyes" to keep from seeing double?

Does one eye see much better than the other?

Do you see "halos" around headlights at night?

Even if you answered "no" to these questions, keep in mind that symptoms of eye disease and vision problems are not always apparent. Eye exams by a doctor of optometry can help you be certain that your eyes are healthy and functioning properly.  The American Optometric Association recommends that you visit the optometrist on a schedule depending on your age. You should seek eye care more frequently if new ocular (eye), visual, or systemic health problems develop. Persons with additional risk factors should also be examined more frequently (those who have a family history of eye disease).

Lifetime Vision Care Recommendations for examination:

• Infants:  By 6 months of age;
• Children:  at 3 years of age, before starting first grade, and every 2 years thereafter
• 18 years - 40 years:  Every 1-2 years
• 41 years and older:  Every year.