Despite the fact that over 80% of Americans fear losing their eyesight more than any other sense, a recent study has found that an even greater percent do not get eye exams even though they may be at risk for eye disease. Unfortunately, due to hard times with the economy many people are skipping them.

Neglecting to have eye exams is a problem because they can easily pick up signs of glaucoma and macular degeneration two eye diseases that have no symptoms until they have caused serious damage. Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world. Age related macular degeneration is the most common cause of blindness in those over 55 in the US. Early treatment can prevent blindness.

Glaucoma can be treated by drops or surgery to relieve pressure in the eye. There are treatments for both age related and wet macular degeneration that include injections, laser treatments and vitamins and supplements.

Regular eye checks not only help to prevent eye diseases but often times eye doctors can find other problems such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, multiple sclerosis and even brain tumors. That is why it is so important to make sure that a trip to the eye doctor is on your health maintenance calendar.