Eye Exam: What to Expect at Your Eye Doctor in Edmonton
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
When was the last time you had an eye exam? A comprehensive eye checkup is just as vital as your annual physical examination and an essential component of your overall healthcare. Regular eye exams not only determine whether you need prescription eyewear but also help detect ocular health issues like glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and cataracts.
Many people only visit an eye doctor when they notice a problem. However, healthcare professionals recommend regular eye exams even if you don’t experience symptoms. Many eye diseases are asymptomatic in their early stages, meaning they can progress without visible signs.
General Recommendations for Eye Exams
- Adults (20–40): Every 2 years.
- Adults over 40: Every 2 years, or more frequently depending on risk factors.
- Children (under 19), seniors (65+), and individuals with specific conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure, family history of eye disease): Annual exams are advised.
If you’ve suffered an eye injury, undergone eye surgery, or wear contact lenses, annual eye exams are also highly recommended.
What to Expect During Your Eye Exam
During a comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist will perform various tests to assess your vision and optical health. Here’s what typically happens:
- Medical History
Your eye doctor will begin by discussing your medical history, including any existing health conditions, current medications, and any eye or vision problems you’ve noticed. - Visual Acuity Test
This test evaluates how well you can see by asking you to read letters or numbers on a chart from a distance. Each eye is tested individually by covering one eye at a time. - Ocular Motility Test
To check the health of your eye muscles and their ability to move in different directions, your doctor will ask you to follow a moving object with your eyes. - Pupillary Reaction Test
A bright light is directed into each pupil to observe how they contract and dilate. This helps evaluate the function of your pupils and overall eye health. - Refraction
Using a device called a phoropter, your doctor will test your ability to see objects at varying distances. By looking through lenses of differing strengths, you’ll select the clearest option to determine the correct prescription for your glasses or contacts. - Slit Lamp Test
A slit lamp (a bio microscope) illuminates the front of your eye to detect any scratches, scars, or signs of cataracts. In some cases, a dye is applied to highlight damages more clearly, which is then flushed away with your tears. - Glaucoma Testing
- Tonometry: Measures the pressure inside your eye using either a puff of air or a small device. Eye drops may be used to numb the eye beforehand.
- Ophthalmoscopy: Examines the optic nerve for any signs of damage or abnormality.
- Retinal Examination
Also known as ophthalmoscopy or fundoscopy, this test examines the retina, its blood vessels, and the optic disc. Your pupils may be dilated with drops to provide a clearer view during the exam.
If any abnormalities, such as elevated intraocular pressure or optic nerve irregularities, are detected, your doctor may recommend additional tests to rule out or confirm conditions like glaucoma.
Why Choose The Optometrists’ Clinic Inc.?
At The Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., we provide comprehensive eye exams for the entire family. Whether you need updated prescription eyewear, are experiencing vision problems, or simply want to maintain your eye health, our experienced and dedicated team is here to help.
Our clinic offers a range of optical solutions tailored to your needs, ensuring you and your loved ones enjoy clear vision and long-term eye health.
Book Your Eye Exam Today
Don’t wait for vision problems to arise. Contact The Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. to schedule your next eye exam. Visit one of our convenient locations in Edmonton or reach out online to learn more about our services and prescription eyewear options.
