If you’ve never had an eye exam before or you haven’t seen an optometrist in years, you may be wondering what to expect.
. Here’s what will happen during your appointment. Medical history Prior to any tests, you’ll be asked to fill out a form about your medical and family history. This will help your optometrist identify whether you’re at risk for any conditions that can be detected during an eye exam. Eye tests Once your medical history has been collected, your eye doctor will perform a series of tests to evaluate your vision and ocular health. A comprehensive eye exam typically includes: ● Visual acuity test. You’ll be asked to read a series of letters that range in size from large to very small on a chart positioned a specific distance from your chair. This helps the eye doctor assess your ability to see details and shapes. ● Refraction assessment. If the first test indicates that you need vision correction, this exam allows the eye doctor to determine your correct prescription. You’ll look at the letter chart through a machine while the optometrist places different lenses in front of your eye to find the most suitable option. ● Visual field test. This assessment is designed to test how much peripheral vision you have without moving your eyes. It’ll also detect whether you have blind spots or difficulty seeing anywhere in your field of vision. Part of this assessment involves facing a screen, focusing on a light in the middle and pressing a button whenever you see a flash of light elsewhere. ● Colour vision test. Some people have poor colour vision or colour-blindness and don’t realize it. Your eye doctor will show you multi-coloured dot patterns that should be easy to pick out if you have normal colour vision. ● Slit-lamp exam. This test allows your eye doctor to look at your eyes through a microscope to check for abnormalities and other signs of disease. The optometrist will shine a bright, painless light in your eye while you focus beyond them or to the side. ● Eye pressure test. This test is designed to detect glaucoma, a disease that damages the optic nerve. The most common way to perform this test is by sending a puff of air into your eye to estimate the fluid pressure. Are you ready for your exam? The professionals at Optometrists’ Clinic will ensure your first eye exam is easy and comfortable. Call us today to schedule an appointment.