An eye exam consists of several tests that allow the optometrist to determine the eyes' overall health. This exam can help to update prescriptions and catch any early warning signs of vision issues. Learning what the optometrist is looking for can help you understand the importance of maintaining an eye exam schedule and the frequency at which you must visit the optometrist.
Visual acuity measures a patient's ability to see and identify objects clearly. It is often the most common test patients think of when they schedule an eye exam. The test involves the optometrist using an eye chart to determine how well the patient can see at varying distances. They will be asked to identify different letters and numbers from a chart placed at a distance. This portion of the eye exam aims to identify refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism– all requiring corrective lenses or laser eye treatment.
In certain cases, the optometrist may check the stability of a patient's refraction over time. This is particularly relevant for children's still-developing eyes or those of a mature age with an underlying medical condition. Measuring the eye's refraction over multiple visits can help the optometrist determine if any changes occur and monitor the progress of the patient's vision.
The visual field test occurs during every eye exam, regardless of age. It helps detect abnormalities or vision loss that may result from eye diseases, such as glaucoma or retinal problems. The optometrist may use various approaches, like having the patient focus on a central point in the room while small objects or lights are placed in their peripheral vision. The optometrist will move the object or light closer or farther from the front of their eyes until they can indicate when they see them.
Testing how well the eyes work together and their muscle control is another common test many patients think of when scheduling an eye exam. This portion of the exam includes the cover test, involving the patient covering one eye at a time and using a tool called a prism to assess each eye's alignment and movement. This test can help detect conditions such as strabismus or amblyopia (lazy eye).
When testing for eye diseases or the risk of development, the optometrist will check the pressure within the eye, formally known as intraocular pressure. Painless tonometry is a common test the optometrist will use to measure eye pressure. This test may involve gently touching the eye's surface or using a puff of air directed onto the eye to measure the pressure. These methods help determine if the eye pressure is at a normal level or if the patient needs further testing due to the development of underlying diseases.
Of course, the whole point of an eye exam is to check its overall health, not just certain aspects. The optometrist will examine the external structures of the eye, including the eyelids, lashes, and conjunctiva, to detect abnormalities, such as inflammation or infections. With the aid of various instruments, the optometrist will examine the eye's internal structure, including its retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels. This evaluation helps identify any signs of underlying diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, or retinal detachment.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends children undergo their first eye exam by their first birthday. Children between the ages of six and 17 should have one annually as their bodies are still developing. Adults between the ages of 20 to 39 years old should undergo a comprehensive eye exam every two to three years if they are in good health. Those aged 40 to 54 should schedule an exam every two years, and those older than that should visit annually.
The frequency of eye exams can vary depending on each patient's medical history, familial history of eye diseases, and existing vision problems. If a patient has an underlying condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, macular degeneration, or cataracts, they will likely attend biannual appointments or more. Furthermore, if a patient wears glasses or contact lenses, the optometrist may schedule them for annual appointments to ensure their prescription stays current.
Eye exams are important for patients of all ages, as they check for more than whether or not you need glasses. Regular exams can help detect issues before they begin and protect the integrity of your eye health. Contact our office today if you are ready to schedule your next eye exam.
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