What does a comprehensive eye exam involve?
1. Visual Acuity Test: You'll be asked to read letters on an eye chart (like the Snellen chart) at different distances to assess your sharpness of vision.
2. Tonometry: This test measures the pressure inside your eye, which is important for detecting glaucoma. A puff of air may be used, or a device may gently touch the eye.
3. Refraction Test: If the visual acuity test indicates a need for corrective lenses, this test will determine the exact prescription for glasses or contacts.
4. Eye Muscle Examination: The doctor will assess how well your eyes move and work together by having you follow a light or object with your eyes.
5. Medical History Review: The eye doctor will ask about your general health, any medications you're taking, and any family history of eye conditions. They will also inquire about your vision concerns and lifestyle.
6. Pupil Dilation: Eye drops may be used to dilate your pupils, allowing the doctor to see the back of your eye (retina) more clearly. This can cause temporary blurry vision and light sensitivity.
7. Slit-Lamp Examination: A microscope with a bright light (slit lamp) is used to examine the front part of your eye, including the eyelids, cornea, iris, and lens.
8. Retinal Examination: The doctor will examine the back of your eye (retina and optic nerve) using an ophthalmoscope or special lens.
9. Other potential tests: Depending on your individual needs, your doctor may also perform tests like a color vision test or a visual field test (to assess your peripheral vision), OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography.
Why is dilatation important?
It allows us to obtain the most accurate amount of Refractive Error and to determine if glasses are necessary
Also allows us to view the internal structures of the eye and overall eye health.
How long Will the dilation last?
For children, a special dilating drop is used in the clinic that will cause an enlarged pupil, light sensitivity and blurred vision when focusing at a close range. This normally will last approximately 6 to 8 hours.
For adults, a different dilating drop is used that will cause the same effects but should last approximately 2 to 4 hours. Caution should be taken with driving. We recommend that someone accompany you to drive you home if you feel uncomfortable doing so.
What should I bring to my eye exam?
Current glasses and/or contact lenses.
• List of medications (including over-the-counter medications).
• Information about any eye conditions or family history of eye problems.