Nowadays, the use of smartphones has become an integral part of our daily lives. From sending text messages to taking selfies and playing games, we rely heavily on our phones for all sorts of activities.
But did you know that you can also use your phone to improve your vision? That’s right! With the rise of technology and mobile applications, you can now download screening apps that claim to help enhance and maintain your eye health through various exercises and programs.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what these apps have to offer and discuss whether they really have the potential to improve or maintain your vision.
The Role Of Screening Apps In Eye Health
Smartphones have revolutionized the way we access information and interact with others, but this comes at a cost to our eye health.
Digital eye strain, caused by extended use of devices like computers, tablets, and phones, can lead to headaches, blurred vision, and fatigue.
Fortunately, apps designed specifically for eye health are now available to help mitigate the impact of digital eye strain. These include eye exercises such as visual acuity training and contrast sensitivity training, ways to monitor the progression of certain eye diseases, game-style applications for tracking progress, reminders to take breaks from screen time, and more.
While these apps may not be able to prevent common diseases such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, presbyopia (age-related long-sightedness), or cataracts, they can help users identify certain sight problems in the early stages.
Curious to find out how?
Here is a quick look at 3 of the most popular eye screening apps right now:
● Verana Vision Test
Verana Vision Test is a free iOS app developed by ophthalmologists that helps users track their vision health over time. It uses an Amsler Grid, a tool used to identify any changes in the eyes such as those caused by macular degeneration or other eye diseases. The results are saved within the app and can easily be shared with a patient’s healthcare provider with a tap of a button.
● Macula Tester
MaculaTester is an Android and iOS app that costs $2.99. Its interactive Amsler Grid helps users detect early signs of macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy. It also reminds them to check their vision regularly and records all the test results which can then be shared with an ophthalmologist for further diagnosis and treatment.
● EyeXam
EyeXam is a free Android app that enables you to conduct a vision test at home, find an eyecare provider, and schedule an appointment. Additionally, the app allows you to evaluate your eye dominance, color perception, and astigmatism, as well as monitor the progression of macular disease. You can save and send the outcomes and record to your physician via email.
Final Thoughts
While smartphone apps for eye health may provide a convenient and accessible way to monitor and improve your vision, they certainly have their limitations.
That’s why it’s always best to consult with a reputable ophthalmologist and undergo regular eye exams. These professionals can provide a more accurate assessment of your eye health and detect any potential issues early on, which is crucial for preventing more serious problems down the road.
Therefore, while smartphone apps can be helpful, they should not replace the importance of seeing an eye doctor regularly. By combining the use of these apps with professional medical guidance, you can ensure that you are taking the best possible care of your eyes and preserving your vision for years to come.
