Although we will talk about the reasons that may indicate that we need to visit an eye doctor, it should be borne in mind that periodic eye checks help detect eye problems in time. Knowing them minimizes their impact on the quality of life of people and performs the necessary treatment, such as the use of glasses or contact lenses, the performance of eye surgery or treatment with medications.

1. Observe moving spots, light flashes, halos around lights

The floating bodies that we can observe in our vision are called 'myodesopsia', although they are also known as 'flying flies'. It is in most cases, normal degenerations of the gel that fills the eye, vitreous humor. Other times they can respond to inflammation or hemorrhages of the vitreous cavity that accumulate in the vitreous humor. These particles cast a shadow on the retina, which produces that 'suspended flies' effect on our vision.

Although they are harmless and quite common, it is worth visiting the ophthalmologist to rule out major problems, such as a detached retina.

It may also be the case that there is a kind of halos around the lights. This may mean that a change of glasses or contact lenses is needed, but it can also be a symptom of an eye migraine. These halos occur when there are sharp increases in intraocular pressure, so it is very important to consult with an eye doctor.

2. Irritation and dry eyes

Eye irritation, by itself, is not an alarm signal, but when it becomes a common nuisance, it can be a symptom of dry eye syndrome, a chronic condition that results from the lack of lubrication and moisture in the eye surface

For those who suffer from this condition, it is quite annoying, so it is necessary to visit the ophthalmologist to recommend a medical treatment that reduces symptoms.

3. Accidental exposure to chemicals

If for any reason you are exposed to chemical substances and one comes into contact with your eyes, you should visit the ophthalmologist as soon as possible. If you have this type of accident, it is best to wash your eyes with plenty of cold water for a few minutes and immediately go to the specialist. The ophthalmologist will check all eye structures that may have been damaged by the substance that came into contact with the eye.

4. Sudden eye pains

If you have acute eye pain, it could be a sign of several problems, including a foreign body lodged in the eye or a viral or bacterial infection. Another cause of intense pain is an eye inflammation, increased intraocular pressure, or simply that it is necessary to change glasses.

The increase in intraocular pressure above very high levels can also give eye pain, but of another type and may be accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting and visual symptoms such as acute vision decline.

5. Present light sensitivity

Sensitivity to light, also called photophobia, is one of the symptoms of ocular migraine or that there is a presence of some inflammation in the eye. Therefore, it is necessary to go to the ophthalmologist to determine its causes and to treat it correctly.

Age, one of the reasons why you should visit the ophthalmologist

Up to 40 years, it is necessary to make complete revisions of our vision, every 3 or 5 years. It is recommended that these revisions increase every two years, as 40 years approach. From 40 to 65 years it is recommended to visit the ophthalmologist once a year. These reviews will detect conditions such as presbyopia or eyestrain.

After age 65, complete vision checks should be increased. They are necessary to diagnose eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration.