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Do I need to provide a medical or vision history?

Yes, providing your medical and vision history is an important part of your eye exam. It helps your eye doctor get a complete picture of your eye health and identify potential risks or issues. Here's why it's important and what you should share:

Why It's Important:

  1. Personalized Care:
    • Your medical and vision history helps your doctor understand your unique needs and risks, such as a family history of glaucoma or diabetes.
  2. Detecting Underlying Issues:
    • Many systemic health conditions, like diabetes, hypertension, and autoimmune disorders, can affect your eyes.
  3. Accurate Diagnosis:
    • Previous surgeries, injuries, or treatments may influence your current vision and eye health.
  4. Preventing Complications:
    • Allergies to medications, prior reactions, or ongoing treatments can help your doctor choose safe and effective options for you.

What to Share:

1. Vision History:

  • Current vision issues: Blurry vision, difficulty reading, night vision problems, or eye strain.
  • Glasses/Contacts: When was your last prescription? Any discomfort or issues with your current lenses?
  • Previous eye problems: Infections, injuries, surgeries, or conditions like lazy eye or cataracts.

2. Medical History:

  • Chronic conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disorders, etc.
  • Family history: Glaucoma, macular degeneration, or other hereditary eye diseases.
  • Medications: Include prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements you’re taking.
  • Allergies: To medications, eye drops, or anything else.

3. Lifestyle Information:

  • Screen time: How much time you spend on computers, phones, or other digital devices.
  • Work habits: Any jobs or hobbies that may strain your eyes (e.g., fine detail work, driving at night).
  • UV exposure: Outdoor activities without sunglasses or protective eyewear.

Being thorough with your history ensures you get the best care, accurate prescriptions, and early detection of any potential issues. If you're unsure about what to bring, your eye doctor’s office can provide guidance before your visit.