What to Expect From a Comprehensive Eye Exam

Undergoing a comprehensive eye exam is important in maintaining good vision. This is why the American Optometric Association encourages people of all ages to have this type of eye exam. It can reveal eye and vision problems early. Early detection can result in early treatment. Here are the key details to expect during your comprehensive eye exam.

Taking the Patient’s History

Your eye doctor will ask about the vision or eye problems that you may be experiencing. Questions about your current general health may come up. Tell your eye doctor about the medications and supplements you are taking, as well as the different conditions affecting your eyesight. The eye doctor may also ask about past health or eye conditions that you or your family members have.

Going Through Different Tests

The eye doctor will perform different eye tests during your comprehensive eye exam. The purpose of these tests is to see how healthy your eyes are and how good your vision is. You can prepare for the tests by learning about them before your appointment. Here are some facts about each of them:
 

• Preliminary tests include assessments for pupil response, color vision, depth perception, peripheral vision, and eye muscle movements.
   

• Visual acuity tests measure the clarity of each eye’s vision. Your eye doctor will use an eye chart to see how well your near and distance visions are. A normal result for this test is a 20/20 vision.
   

• Topography or keratometry measures your cornea’s curvature. The eye doctor will focus a circle of light on the cornea. This will measure the reflection of the light. The resulting measurement is important in finding out the correct fit for contact lenses.
   

• Automatic refraction tests use an autorefractor to see the visual acuity of those having trouble communicating with others. It is also a test for young people. The autorefractor shines a light into your eye and gauges the eye’s response. The test helps eye doctors find out the right lens prescription.
   

• A color vision test will check if you are color blind. Your eye doctor will show you different images using colored dots. The patient must distinguish the numbers in different colored dots.
   

• A peripheral vision test involves following an object or finger up and down and side-to-side. You can only move your eyes and not your head.
   

• Tonometry tests detect pressure issues in the eye. High eye pressure is a definite sign of glaucoma. Your eye doctor will give your eyes numbing eye drops before the test. Then, a tonometer will blow a tiny puff of air on your cornea.
   

• Corneal topography will involve using a computer to map your cornea. The test will determine if you have a curvature in your cornea.

A comprehensive eye exam can help prevent vision loss as you age through early, targeted treatments. At Professional Eye Care at Westar, we always make our patients comfortable and relaxed before their eye checks and treatments. You can visit our facility in Westerville, Ohio, for a one-on-one consultation. Please call 614-686-2300 to schedule an appointment or inquire about our comprehensive eye exam packages.