Eye Diseases: Many eye diseases, such as glaucoma and diabetic eye disease, have no obvious symptoms in their
early stages. Your eye doctor will check the health of your eyes inside and out for signs of early problems. In most
cases, early detection and treatment of eye diseases can help reduce your risk for permanent vision loss.

For example, diabetes can cause small blood vessel leaks or bleeding in the eye, as well as swelling of
the macula (the most sensitive part of the retina), which can lead to vision loss. It’s estimated that one-third of
Americans who have diabetes don’t know it; your eye doctor may detect the disease before your primary care
physician does, especially if you’re overdue for a physical.

Other Diseases: Your eye doctor can detect early signs of some systemic conditions and diseases by looking at your
eye’s blood vessels, retina and so forth. They may be able to tell you if you are developing high blood pressure,
high cholesterol or other problems.

Also see: When Do Children Need An Eye Exam?