An eye examination is carried out by our optometrist and usually takes about 20 minutes (but may take longer if extra tests are required). As well as testing your sight, our optometrist will check the health of your eyes and look for signs of general health problems.
The examination will normally include the following elements:
History and symptoms
This usually involves some questions to establish the reason for the visit, whether it is a routine check up or that you have come because of a specific visual problem. Additional information including medication, general heath, family history, previous spectacles/contact lenses may be relevant.
Vision
Your vision will be measured both with and without spectacles or lenses to check for any problems with your eyesight. Our Optometrist would normally assess your distance vision (for TV and driving), your near vision (for reading and close work) and your intermediate vision (for computer use). A series of tests to measure the type and extent of any problem with your vision will be carried out. The prescriptions for spectacles and/or contact lenses will be determined through subjective refraction.
Examining the eye
Your eyes will be examined both externally and internally. This will enable an assessment to be made of the health of your eyes and may identify any other underlying medical problems. The interior of your eye will be examined using an ophthalmoscope, a special torch which shines a light through the pupil allowing a detailed study of the internal structures. Your pupil reflexes will also be tested. Screening for glaucoma is also done for those in the higher risks group. Eye movements and co-ordination Eye movements and co-ordination are checked to make sure that both eyes are working together, and that undue stress is not being placed on the eye muscles. Good muscle balance is particularly important for those who use computers or read for prolonged periods.
Conclusion
After the eye exam, we will now have a detailed knowledge of the health of your eyes, the standard of your vision and any special requirements that you may have. This information will be explained to you but if you do not understand anything or require more information, we will be pleased to help. You will also have the opportunity to discuss the best form of vision correction to suit your individual lifestyle and visual needs.
