Dilated eye exams are critical

Viewing the back of the eye helps catch problems earlier.

Reading an eye chart every few years isn't enough to maintain eye health and prevent complications down the road. Earlier this year, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) came out with a statement urging everyone to have regular dilated eye exams that allow physicians to see clearly into the back of the eye. "It's critical to have dilated exams," says Dr. Jeffrey Heier, director of the retina service at Ophthalmic Consultants of Boston and clinical instructor in ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School. "Once problems occur, vision loss can be irreversible. Catching problems early can help preserve vision."