Because the eye is affected by dozens of systemic diseases – such as diabetes, high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis, HIV/AIDS, thyroid disorders and rheumatoid arthritis – your health history is especially useful to your doctor when she examines your eyes. For example, a history of hypertension may cause the doctor to order additional tests for glaucoma. You will also be asked about your own eye history, since previous surgeries, diseases and injuries may impact your current condition and future treatment options.

The technician or doctor frequently asks for the eye and health history of your parents and grandparents because heredity plays a major role in glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetes and vascular disease.

Your doctor may request a list of the medications you take. The list often alerts the doctor to systemic diseases you may have forgotten to report. Your doctor also will consider your current medications when selecting eye medications, since some medications can counteract or amplify the effects of other medications.

Through training and experience, your eye doctor is well-versed in the complex conditions that impact your eyes. By collecting accurate information regarding your family history, systemic diseases, ocular history and medications, she can thoroughly evaluate the health of your eyes.