Annual Eye Exams Can Detect Vision, Health Conditions

The articles recommend making comprehensive eye exams a regular habit, including for people with 20/20 vision, because exams assess overall eye health and may detect medical conditions beyond vision problems. They distinguish full exams by an eye-care professional from basic screenings, which primarily check for refractive errors; early exams are especially important for children, who may not recognize or report blurry vision. Exams can include visual-acuity testing and evaluation of the retina, cornea, and optic nerve, with newer imaging equipment able to photograph the retina without dilation drops.