You don't feel any discomfort and you're probably wondering why you should have regular check-ups with your ophthalmologist? There are many eye diseases that appear gradually and without significant pain... This is why, from the age of 50, it is strongly recommended to have your eyes checked regularly.

Indeed, age-related ocular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in France (progressive central vision loss), followed by glaucoma (destruction of the optic nerve, pressure in the eye, progressive peripheral vision loss), and finally cataracts (fog, blurriness, loss of color).

How will my appointment with the ophthalmologist go?

The ophthalmologist will perform an eye exam to determine the correction you need and will ensure your maximum visual acuity.

Then they will test your eye pressure (by contact or by a quick jet of air).

Using a slit lamp (a type of microscope for viewing the inside of the layers of your eyes), they will observe the surface of your eyes (no lesions) and then they will examine your lens (to see if there is a cataract or if they had detected one before, to see if it is the same or more intense).

They will perform a fundus examination (with drops that dilate the pupil to see better, so don't worry if you see a little blurry when you leave. As soon as the effect of the drops wears off, you'll feel as comfortable as before. Also, be careful with light. Since the pupil is dilated, you'll be more sensitive to light after this exam. They can check for AMD or other pathologies.

Finally, a photo of the optic nerve head can be taken to check for glaucoma.

Let's take the case of glaucoma: you won't feel anything, and the loss of peripheral vision will only alarm you when the glaucoma is truly extensive. While early detection and putting a few drops in your eyes every morning will allow you to maintain your full field of vision and protect your vision...

From the age of 50, an appointment every two years is preferable to screen for glaucoma and cataracts.

From the age of 60, an annual check-up is better. One in five people over the age of 65 has a cataract, and by the age of 70, 10% of the population is affected by glaucoma...

And if you experience discomfort, blurriness, a narrowing of your field of vision, or distorted lines, consult a doctor immediately. The sooner you receive treatment, the more you can protect your eyes...