Do You Need Monthly Retina Checks? Eye Health Concerns - Ophthalmology

Share to:

Retinal issues


Hello, doctor.
I apologize for the interruption.
Do I need to have my retina checked every month for degeneration? Why is it not necessary to check every month? Recently, I've been feeling a bit down and cried for a while, and I also rubbed my eyes a bit.
I haven't experienced any discomfort since then.
Should I see a doctor?

Hei Hei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/21

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology


Hello, regular check-ups are sufficient.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Tsai Wen-Yuan, Director of the Ophthalmology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/12/21

More Info


When it comes to eye health, particularly regarding the retina, the frequency of checks largely depends on individual risk factors and existing conditions. For most people, monthly retina checks are not necessary unless there are specific concerns or pre-existing conditions that warrant such frequent monitoring. Regular eye exams, typically once a year, are sufficient for most individuals. These exams usually include a comprehensive assessment of your vision, eye health, and retina.

If you have a history of retinal issues, such as retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, or other eye diseases, your eye care professional may recommend more frequent checks. However, for individuals without such conditions, an annual check-up is generally adequate. During these exams, the eye doctor will assess the health of your retina and other eye structures, looking for signs of degeneration or other issues.

Regarding your recent emotional distress and the subsequent crying and rubbing of your eyes, it’s important to note that while these actions can cause temporary discomfort or irritation, they typically do not lead to long-term damage. If you experienced no immediate discomfort or visual changes after these episodes, it is likely that you do not need to see a doctor right away. However, if you notice any persistent symptoms such as blurred vision, floaters, flashes of light, or any other unusual changes in your vision, it would be wise to consult an eye care professional.

Crying can lead to temporary changes in vision due to tears and swelling around the eyes, but these effects usually resolve quickly. Rubbing your eyes can also cause irritation or exacerbate any existing conditions, such as dry eyes or allergies. If you find yourself frequently rubbing your eyes, it may be beneficial to explore the underlying causes, such as dryness or fatigue, and address those issues.

In summary, unless you have specific risk factors or symptoms that concern you, monthly retina checks are generally not necessary. Regular annual eye exams should suffice for monitoring your eye health. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your eye care provider for further evaluation. Taking care of your emotional health is also crucial, as stress and anxiety can impact your overall well-being, including your vision. If you find that your emotional state is affecting your daily life, consider seeking support from a mental health professional.

Similar Q&A

Do People with High Myopia Need Regular Retina Check-Ups?

Dear Doctor, does high myopia require regular examinations of the retinal condition? If so, how often should these examinations be conducted for optimal monitoring? Thank you.


Dr. Wang Zhangji reply Ophthalmology
High myopia, diabetes, and floaters should ideally be checked annually. If any abnormalities have already been detected, the examination interval should be shortened according to the physician's recommendations.

[Read More] Do People with High Myopia Need Regular Retina Check-Ups?


Essential Eye Care: Regular Checkups and Important Tests for Vision Health

Hello, I have been nearsighted for the past five years, with my prescription ranging from -3.50 to -5.00 diopters, and I also have astigmatism (50, 100) and floaters. In my daily life, I can drive, read, and use electronic devices (which has a slight impact but is not severe). Du...


Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Question 1: Regarding your vision condition, it is recommended that you have an eye examination annually, which includes a refraction test and a fundus examination. Additionally, glaucoma and cataract screenings will be conducted during the visit, and you can discuss wit...

[Read More] Essential Eye Care: Regular Checkups and Important Tests for Vision Health


Understanding the Importance and Frequency of Fundus Exams for Eye Health

Hello, Doctor. Regarding the fundus examination performed with mydriatic agents, theoretically, should I not need to worry too much about retinal diseases for about six months after each examination? Since I have high myopia, I am very sensitive about eye care. Whenever I feel so...


Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology
To determine if there is high myopia, or based on what symptoms are present.

[Read More] Understanding the Importance and Frequency of Fundus Exams for Eye Health


Regular Eye Exams: Key to Preventing Retinal Issues and Vision Loss

Does this mean that as long as I regularly undergo check-ups, if any issues with the retina are detected in time, I can receive treatment and avoid severe consequences like blindness? Also, should I just see an ophthalmologist at a major hospital, or is it necessary to consult a ...


Dr. Hu Yusheng reply Ophthalmology
Hello Mr. Hsiao-Feng: 1. Yes. 2. It is best to have an ophthalmic specialist who performs retinal surgeries. Sincerely, Dr. Hu Yu-Sheng, Attending Ophthalmologist.

[Read More] Regular Eye Exams: Key to Preventing Retinal Issues and Vision Loss


Related FAQ

Retinal Exam

(Ophthalmology)

Retina

(Ophthalmology)

Eye Examination

(Ophthalmology)

Vision Care

(Ophthalmology)

Macular Degeneration

(Ophthalmology)

Eyeball

(Ophthalmology)

Pediatric Vision Screening

(Ophthalmology)

Retinal Detachment

(Ophthalmology)

Contact Lenses

(Ophthalmology)

Eyelid Disease

(Ophthalmology)