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3 DIY Eye Tests to Try at Home

Let's be honest, most of us take our sight for granted. But in reality, failing to maintain proper vision care could have a life-changing impact, though this alone doesn't seem to be motivation enough. In 2016 an estimated 61 million U.S. adults are at high risk for vision loss, with only half reporting that they received a vision test in the last year. With such a concerning trend, is there an easier way to gauge whether or not your sight might be declining? Fortunately, there is, with no formal appointment required. What could be better than a free eye exam? If you're curious about the state of your vision, take a look at these 3 do-it-yourself eye tests to try at home:

  1. Watch the Clock

The only equipment this first test requires is an analog clock. All you have to do is concentrate on the lines of the clock, and if any appear blurrier than the rest, it may indicate astigmatism. Astigmatism causes blurriness in the eyes. It’s a common condition that can usually be corrected with glasses or contacts, but first a vision test must be done to diagnose it. If any lines appear blurry after completing this DIY test, you should schedule an eye exam to make sure the quality of your vision is up to par.

  1. The Theater Effect

You know that feeling when you transition too abruptly from light to dark or vice versa? Take, for instance, when you enter or leave a movie theater. If your eyes adjust to the lighting change within a few minutes, your vision is likely fine. But if your eyes take too much time to adjust, also known as poor dark adaptation ability, it may be a sign of a more serious condition. It's important to schedule an eye test if you experience any maladjustment between light and dark.

  1. Screen Strain

Most everyone today experiences some degree of eye discomfort as a result of staring at a computer screen or other electronic device, but when could this discomfort indicate a more serious issue? Working at a computer for prolonged periods can result in tired, dry eyes. If you start to experience redness, spots in your vision, or an agitated sensitivity to light, you should make an appointment with your eye doctor, as this could signal a condition which requires treatment.

Sight is something we shouldn't take for granted, and it’s necessary to institute proper care for our eyes. With a considerable percentage of the population suffering from some degree of visual impairment, it’s important to routinely check the state of your vision. Regularly scheduled eye exams are a crucial preventative step, but there are other strategies, too. Make use of free eye exams that can be done on your own time. Just remember: while a DIY diagnosis may be convenient, be sure to speak with a professional about proper treatment for any conditions that arise. Questions? Comments? For more information, please contact us, and we will be happy to help or schedule that exam.