When it comes to protecting your health, regular eye exams might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But these visits do much more than check your vision, they also provide a vital opportunity to catch serious health conditions early. By examining the eyes both inside and out, your optometrist can identify subtle warning signs that may otherwise go unnoticed.
 

Understanding Eye and Eyelid Cancers

Eye cancer can involve the surface of the eye, internal structures, or the surrounding tissues, including the eyelids. Common types include conjunctival tumors, intraocular melanomas, and basal cell carcinoma of the eyelid. Though not as widely discussed as other cancers, these conditions can be life-altering and even life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early.
 

The Role of Comprehensive Eye Exams

During a comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist evaluates the entire eye - inside and out. This includes inspecting the eyelids for abnormal growths, discoloration, or lesions, and using high-powered instruments to examine internal structures like the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels. These tests are painless and non-invasive, but they are powerful tools for spotting early warning signs of more serious issues.
 

What We Look For

At Kopolow & Girisgen, we are trained to detect subtle changes that could signal the early stages of cancer. This includes:
 

• Unusual lumps or lesions on the eyelid or surrounding skin
• Changes in pigmentation or shape of moles near the eye
• Redness or thickening of the eyelids that does not go away
• Unexplained changes in vision or persistent eye irritation
• Pigmented spots on the iris or retina

Early detection dramatically increases the success of treatment. Many forms of eyelid and ocular cancer can be treated effectively if caught in their earliest stages.
 

Why Regular Exams Are Crucial

Unlike other health screenings that may be recommended annually or biannually, some people wait years between eye exams. This delay can allow serious conditions to progress undetected. Regular eye exams, especially for adults over 40 or individuals with risk factors such as fair skin, excessive sun exposure, or a family history of cancer, are essential for safeguarding your eye health and overall well-being.
 

Protect More Than Just Your Vision

Your eyes can reveal important clues about your overall health. A comprehensive eye exam is one of the most effective ways to detect early signs of serious conditions like eyelid and ocular cancers. By staying consistent with your eye care, you're taking an important step toward protecting not just your vision, but your long-term health.
 

Schedule your next eye exam at Kopolow & Girisgen, Doctors of Optometry, to stay ahead of eyelid and ocular cancers. Visit our Website, text GLASSES to 21000, give us a call at (702) 452-2020 and a member of our friendly team will be in touch!