How Regular Eye Exams Detect More Than Vision Problems

According to the American Optometric Association (AOA) Eye-Q Survey in 2020, one in five Americans say an eye health professional has detected a non-eye-related health issue during an exam. Optometrists can identify signs of over 270 systemic and chronic diseases just by examining the eyes. A package of employee benefits that includes quality vision insurance encourages employees to take advantage of regular eye exams — potentially identifying health issues early, when they’re easier to treat.

Spotting eye conditions before they cause harm

Eye exams are best known for detecting conditions that quietly threaten vision without obvious symptoms. Glaucoma, for example, is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it damages the optic nerve and can progress unnoticed until significant vision loss occurs. Measuring eye pressure and examining the optic nerve during routine visits can catch it early and prevent irreversible damage. Similarly, cataracts, which cause gradual clouding of the lens, are highly treatable when detected early. By examining the macula, optometrists can also spot early signs of macular degeneration, a condition that threatens central vision, allowing timely treatment to preserve sight.

A Unique View Of Overall Health

The eyes are the only place in the body where doctors can directly observe blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue without surgery, offering a unique window into your systemic health. 

Changes in the tiny blood vessels of your retina can signal larger issues throughout your body. For example, retinal blood vessel damage (diabetic retinopathy) can be an early sign of diabetes before other symptoms appear. Narrowing or bleeding vessels may indicate high blood pressure, which affects nearly half of U.S. adults, many of whom are unaware they have it. Your eyes even offer clues about your heart health. Yellowish rings around the cornea or deposits in retinal arteries can be a warning sign of dangerously high cholesterol and stroke risk. Subtle patterns in retinal blood vessels may predict heart attacks or strokes up to a decade in advance, with as much as 70% accuracy.

Neurological Clues Hidden In The Eyes

Since the eyes are directly connected to the brain, changes in the optic nerve and retina provide early clues to neurological problems. Swelling of the optic nerve (papilledema), pupil changes, or unexplained vision loss can lead to early detection of brain tumors. In fact, nearly 39% of children with brain tumors first present with vision changes. Optic neuritis, an inflammation of the optic nerve causing blurred vision and pain, is the first symptom in up to 20% of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Eye exams can also reveal blocked or damaged blood vessels and signs of past strokes, as about two-thirds of stroke survivors experience vision problems.

Other Surprising Diagnoses From The Exam Chair

Beyond vision problems and major diseases, eye exams can uncover other serious health issues. Autoimmune disorders like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation or dryness in the eyes. Many patients with rheumatoid arthritis experience ocular symptoms. For example, Graves’ disease, which can cause bulging eyes, swelling, or movement changes, has been linked to thyroid eye disease. Routine exams may detect rare cancers, such as ocular melanoma, before patients notice symptoms.

The Bottom Line: Annual Eye Exams Protect More Than Your Sight

Eye exams are not just about clear vision — they are a powerful preventive health tool that can uncover hidden threats early, giving patients the best chance to address them and improve their healthcare quality. The American Optometric Association recommends annual comprehensive exams for adults, with more frequent visits for those at higher risk. Quality vision benefits spur employees to take advantage of preventive care. By making it easy for employees to access preventive care, employers can benefit from cost savings, improved worker morale, and decreased absenteeism.