6 Most Asked Questions about Complete Eye Exams Answered

Although it’s important to have complete eye exams done routinely, only a few people make an effort to see an optometrist at least once every two years. That’s unfortunate, considering that a complete eye examination can diagnose some serious eye problems that are yet to show symptoms. In this blog, we will answer the frequently asked questions about eye exams.

When Should I Seek an Eye Exam?

For young patients, and especially ones wearing contact lenses, complete annual eye exams are recommended. If you are over 40 years, and you have eye health issues, an annual eye exam is recommended. However, if you are younger than 40 years with no symptoms or prescriptions, it is recommended to have an eye exam done every two years.

How Long Is an Eye Exam?

A complete eye check-up does not take long. You will spend between 45 and 60 minutes in the optometrist’s office.

You will take a few minutes to complete the paperwork, and then a few tests will be conducted by our staff to help our doctor determine the need and goal for your visit. Our doctor will then spend a few minutes with you to ensure all the goals, concerns, and tests are addressed.

What Happens During an Eye Exam?

The doctor will first ask you about your vision and medical history before conducting several tests. These tests may include:

• Eye muscle movement test: This test is used to check your eye’s alignment. The optometrist will watch your eye’s movement while you follow a target moving in different directions.

• Cover test: This test is done to help the doctor tell how your eyes work together. She will ask you to stare a small target from a distance. Then, she will observe your eye’s performance to determine if you are affected by a condition called strabismus.

• Pupil reactions: The doctor will check the black part of your eyes. She will then watch how your pupils adjust to objects close to you.

• Refraction testing: If the doctor detects any problem, she may conduct a refraction test for prescription of lenses. If you don’t need any lenses, this test will not be conducted.

• Biomicroscope: Your doctor may use a slit lamp to check your iris, cornea, and the back of your eye. The purpose of this test is to check for signs of some eye problems.

• Glaucoma testing: Glaucoma is a widespread eye condition, and its testing is normally done during eye exams. The process is fast and painless.

• Pachymetry: Pachymetry is conducted to see the thickness of the patient’s cornea. It will most probably be performed only once, and the results can be used for future readings.

• Retinal examination: The doctor may use an ophthalmoscope to see the back of your eyes, looking for signs of certain eye conditions.

All the listed tests may not be conducted during the first visit, and there might be other tests we have not listed. Your doctor will advise you accordingly.

Does a Complete Eye Exam Hurt?

No. The eye tests are painless, although you may experience some discomfort during some tests. For example, some patients feel uncomfortable when the doctor measures the inner pressure of the eye or when asked to look into a bright light.

Can I Drive Myself after an Eye Check-up?

We usually recommend our patients to have a friend or family member drive them into the clinic for exams. The effects of the tests take a few hours to wear off, and some patients may see blurry images for two hours or so after the exam. If you don’t have someone to drive you home, kindly use a taxi or public transport. We will be happier knowing you are safe on the road.

How Can I Find a Good Eye Doctor?

You can find an excellent optometrist in the following ways:

• Get recommendations from friends and family members
• Get more information about the optometrists near you
• Ask your family doctor for recommendations

Dr. Allyson Tang Optometrist

If you’re looking for a complete eye exam in Vaughan, ON, search no more. We offer a comfortable and family-friendly environment. Dr. Allyson Tang has years of experience, and you can count on her experience for high-quality services. Book an appointment today.