Your eyes are one of the most delicate and important organs in your body — yet they're often the most overlooked when it comes to regular checkups.
Many people visit an eye specialist only when their vision starts to blur or when they feel discomfort. But the truth is, regular eye checkups can detect early signs of diseases, prevent vision loss, and keep your eyes healthy for life.
At Brar Eye Hospital, patients often have similar questions about eye care, vision problems, and treatments. This article gathers the most common questions people ask eye specialists — and provides clear, simple answers to help you understand your eyes better.
1. How Often Should I Get My Eyes Checked?
It depends on your age, vision history, and overall health.
- Children (under 18 years): Every 1–2 years to ensure proper vision development.
- Adults (18–40 years): Every 2 years if there are no vision problems.
- Adults (40–60 years): Every 1–2 years; this is when age-related eye changes begin.
- Above 60 years: Every year to monitor for cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease, schedule more frequent checkups.
At Brar Eye Hospital, comprehensive eye exams include digital scans, pressure tests, and corneal assessments — ensuring every detail of your eye health is carefully monitored.
2. What Are the Early Signs That I Might Have an Eye Problem?
Early symptoms of eye problems can be subtle. Some of the most common warning signs include:
- Blurred or double vision
- Eye pain or strain
- Frequent headaches
- Difficulty focusing
- Redness or irritation
- Halos or glare around lights
- Sudden flashes or floaters
If you experience any of these, visit an eye specialist immediately. Early detection can prevent serious conditions like glaucoma or retinal detachment.
3. Why Does My Vision Get Blurry Sometimes?
Temporary blurry vision can happen for many reasons:
- Eye strain from excessive screen time
- Dry eyes due to lack of moisture
- Refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness) or astigmatism
- Fluctuating blood sugar levels in diabetic patients
- Fatigue or dehydration
However, if your vision remains blurry or worsens suddenly, it’s important to get a comprehensive eye examination.
At Brar Eye Hospital, advanced diagnostic equipment helps identify the exact cause of blurry vision and guides precise treatment.
4. Can Using Screens All Day Damage My Eyes?
Yes — but not in the way most people think. Excessive screen time causes a condition called Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) or Digital Eye Strain. Common symptoms include:
- Eye fatigue
- Dryness
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Neck and shoulder pain
To reduce strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Also, ensure your screen is at eye level, maintain proper lighting, and blink often.
Brar Eye Hospital specialists often recommend blue light protection glasses for people who work long hours on screens.
5. Do I Need Glasses, Contact Lenses, or Can I Go for Laser Surgery?
It depends on your eye condition and personal preference.
- Glasses: Safe, affordable, and easy to use.
- Contact Lenses: Offer a natural look and clear peripheral vision.
- Laser Surgery (like LASIK or SMILE): Permanent solution for eligible candidates who want to live free of glasses or lenses.
At Brar Eye Hospital, doctors perform a detailed eligibility check before recommending laser vision correction. This ensures the safest and most effective results for your eyes.
6. What Is the Difference Between LASIK, SMILE, and PRK?
| Procedure | How It Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| LASIK | A thin flap is made on the cornea, then reshaped with a laser. | People with stable prescriptions and healthy corneas. |
| SMILE | A small lenticule (lens-shaped piece) is removed through a tiny incision. | People with dry eyes or active lifestyles. |
| PRK | The surface layer of the cornea is removed and reshaped directly. | People with thin corneas or those not eligible for LASIK. |
All these options are available at Brar Eye Hospital, where experienced surgeons choose the best method for each patient’s eyes.
7. What Causes Dry Eyes and How Can I Treat Them?
Dry eyes occur when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. Common causes include:
- Prolonged screen use
- Aging
- Certain medications (like antihistamines)
- Environmental factors (wind, air conditioning)
- Hormonal changes
Treatment options include:
- Lubricating eye drops
- Lifestyle changes (hydration, blinking exercises)
- Special procedures to retain tear moisture
Brar Eye Hospital offers advanced dry eye management programs, including tear film analysis and customized treatment plans.
8. Can Eye Exercises Improve My Vision Naturally?
Eye exercises can relieve strain and improve focus, but they cannot correct refractive errors like nearsightedness or farsightedness. They are, however, useful for:
- Reducing fatigue from long screen hours
- Strengthening eye coordination
- Relieving discomfort from focusing on close objects
For lasting correction, you may need glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.
9. What Is Glaucoma and Can It Be Cured?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye. It’s known as the “silent thief of sight” because it progresses slowly and often has no early symptoms.
While it cannot be completely cured, early detection and treatment can prevent vision loss. Treatment includes:
- Prescription eye drops
- Laser therapy
- Surgery (in advanced cases)
At Brar Eye Hospital, specialized glaucoma clinics offer regular screenings and pressure control programs for early management.
10. What Are Cataracts and When Should They Be Removed?
A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens inside your eye — making your vision appear foggy or blurry. Symptoms include:
- Cloudy vision
- Sensitivity to bright lights
- Faded colors
- Difficulty seeing at night
Cataract surgery is recommended when it starts interfering with daily activities like reading, driving, or watching TV. During the surgery, the cloudy lens is replaced with a clear artificial lens. The procedure is safe, quick, and highly successful.
Brar Eye Hospital uses advanced phacoemulsification and laser-assisted cataract surgery techniques for fast recovery and precision results.
11. Why Do Some People See Floaters or Flashes?
Floaters are tiny spots or cobweb-like shapes that drift in your field of vision. They are caused by small particles floating inside the eye’s vitreous gel. Flashes, on the other hand, may appear like sudden streaks of light — often linked to retinal tension or detachment.
If you experience a sudden increase in floaters or light flashes, seek medical help immediately. It could indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which is an emergency.
12. How Can I Protect My Eyes from UV Rays?
Prolonged exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of:
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
- Pterygium (growth on the eye surface)
To protect your eyes:
- Wear UV-protected sunglasses outdoors.
- Use wide-brimmed hats when in direct sunlight.
- Avoid looking directly at bright lights or the sun.
Brar Eye Hospital recommends high-quality UV-blocking eyewear for maximum protection.
13. Is It Normal to Have Different Prescriptions in Each Eye?
Yes — it’s perfectly normal. Most people have slightly different vision between their eyes, a condition known as anisometropia. However, if the difference is large, it may cause:
- Eye strain
- Headaches
- Difficulty focusing
Your eye doctor can balance both eyes with customized lenses or contact prescriptions.
14. Are Eye Drops Safe to Use Without a Prescription?
Over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops can temporarily relieve dryness or redness, but they are not suitable for long-term use without medical advice. Using random drops can sometimes mask symptoms of serious issues. Always consult an eye specialist before starting any medication.
At Brar Eye Hospital, ophthalmologists guide patients on safe eye care and prescribe the right drops tailored to individual needs.
15. How Can I Keep My Eyes Healthy Every Day?
Simple daily habits can go a long way in protecting your eyes:
- Eat foods rich in vitamin A, C, and omega-3 (like carrots, fish, and leafy greens).
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule for screen breaks.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors.
- Stay hydrated.
- Avoid smoking, as it increases the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
- Get regular eye checkups, even if you feel fine.
Prevention is always better than cure — and regular checkups at Brar Eye Hospital ensure that your eyes stay clear, bright, and healthy.
When to See an Eye Specialist Immediately
Seek emergency eye care if you experience:
- Sudden loss of vision
- Severe pain or redness
- Flashing lights or floaters
- Eye injury or chemical exposure
- Persistent headaches with vision changes
Prompt medical attention can save your vision.
Conclusion
Your eyes deserve care, attention, and regular checkups — just like any other part of your body. Understanding common eye conditions and asking the right questions can help you take control of your vision health. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, blurry vision, or considering laser surgery, always consult a qualified eye specialist.
At Brar Eye Hospital, expert ophthalmologists use advanced diagnostic tools and years of experience to provide accurate guidance and personalized treatments. From routine checkups to complex surgeries, your eyes are in the safest hands.
See clearly. Live confidently. Visit Brar Eye Hospital today for a complete eye health evaluation — and let your vision shine brighter than ever.