Eye exams do more than test vision and eye health. An ophthalmologist can uncover important information about a patient's overall well-being during an eye exam. Certain symptoms associated with brain tumors also affect the eyes. That's why it's important to schedule regular visits to Neuro-Ophthalmology of Texas at Eye Wellness Center in Houston, TX.
Eye Exams Can Uncover Brain Tumors?
Absolutely! Brain tumor symptoms aren't always immediately noticeable. However, during an eye exam, the eye doctor uses drops to dilate the pupils. This allows the doctor to examine the interior of the eye. Changes to blood vessels in the eye sometimes indicate the presence of a tumor. In some cases, the ophthalmologist can detect pressure on the optic nerve.
If the eye doctor notices anything unusual, he can refer patients to the appropriate medical professional. By catching tumors early, ophthalmologists sometimes help patients get life-saving treatment quickly.
What Symptoms Indicate a Brain Tumor?
The eye doctor will ask follow-up questions if physical signs of a tumor are detected during an eye exam. Here are some symptoms that can accompany brain tumors:
• Loss of peripheral vision
• Double vision
• Changes in pupil size
• Enlarged pupil
• Fixed sized pupil
• Pressure on optic nerve
How an Ophthalmologist Near You Can Help
Rapidly growing tumors can cause a temporary or permanent loss of vision. The faster the tumor grows, the bigger the impact it may have on visual acuity. During an eye exam, an ophthalmologist can look for various indicators of a brain tumor. Additionally, the neuro-ophthalmologist can work with health care providers to expedite the path to life-saving treatment. Brain tumors aren’t the only serious health conditions detected by ophthalmologists.
Other Health Issues Uncovered in Eye Exams
Most people receive a physical once a year to evaluate their overall health. Fewer schedule annual eye exams. However, eye doctors often detect symptoms that indicate various health threats, including aneurysms, tumors, diabetes, lupus, thyroid issues, hypertension, and cancer, to name a few.
By providing more information, eye exams help patients better understand a patient’s overall health. Therefore, everyone should schedule an eye exam annually. It is also important to schedule an eye exam at the first sign of blurry vision or droopy eyelids, among other dangerous symptoms.
Eye Wellness Center: The Eye Doctor Near You
Are you looking for an ophthalmologist near you who will detect the signs and symptoms of brain tumors? At Eye Wellness Center in Houston, TX, patients receive comprehensive exams and expert advice on how to preserve their eye health. Contact the team at Eye Wellness Center to schedule an appointment today!