While many people associate eye exams with reading an eye chart, there is much more involved in a comprehensive examination. Keep reading to learn what to expect during an eye exam beyond the traditional eye chart test, so you can feel more prepared for your next visit to the optometrist.

Case History and Symptoms Evaluation

Your eye doctor will begin by gathering information about your medical history, including any existing eye conditions, prescriptions you’re taking, or general health issues. They will also inquire about any specific symptoms you might be experiencing, such as blurry vision, eye strain, or headaches. This step helps the optometrist understand your unique eye care needs.

Refraction Test

To determine the appropriate prescription for your glasses or contact lenses, your eye doctor will perform a refraction test. You will be asked to look through a series of lenses while indicating which provides the clearest vision. This test helps correct any refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

Eye Muscle Function and Alignment Evaluation

A comprehensive eye exam also includes assessing the coordination and alignment of your eye muscles. Your optometrist will examine how well your eyes work together and track objects, ensuring that both eyes are functioning properly.

Pupil and Peripheral Vision Assessment

Checking the size and responsiveness of your pupils can provide valuable insights into your eye health. Additionally, the optometrist will evaluate your peripheral vision, which is crucial for detecting signs of conditions like glaucoma.

Slit-Lamp Examination

Using a specialized microscope called a slit-lamp, your eye doctor will examine the structures of your eye in detail. This examination helps detect any abnormalities in the cornea, iris, lens, and other vital parts of your eye.

Intraocular Pressure Measurement

Measuring your intraocular pressure is a vital part of the eye exam, as high pressure may indicate glaucoma. The optometrist may use a tonometer or other advanced devices to measure this pressure accurately.

An eye exam encompasses more than just reading an eye chart. By understanding the various tests and evaluations conducted during the exam, you can approach your next visit to the optometrist with confidence. Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining good eye health and detecting any potential issues at an early stage. So, if it’s been a while since your last visit to an eye doctor, schedule an eye exam in Orlando with an experienced optometrist as soon as possible.