What Happens During an Eye Examination

An eye examination is a vital part of maintaining good eye health. When you visit an optometrist for a check-up, several procedures are typically performed to assess your vision and detect any potential issues or conditions.

The first step in an eye examination is the visual acuity test, where you are asked to read letters or numbers from a chart. This test evaluates how clearly you can see objects at various distances.

Another crucial component of the eye examination is measuring the intraocular pressure. This test helps determine if you have glaucoma, a condition characterized by increased pressure within the eye. By gently applying pressure to your eyes or using a specialized device, the optometrist can assess the eye's resistance to pressure.

Next, the optometrist may use a retinoscope or a phoropter to measure your refractive error. This helps determine if you have nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. You will be asked to look through a series of lenses while the optometrist adjusts them to find the most suitable prescription for your eyes.

The optometrist will also examine the external and internal parts of your eyes using a slit lamp microscope. This allows them to inspect the cornea, iris, lens, and other structures in detail. They may use specialized drops to dilate your pupils, providing a better view of the internal structures.

In some cases, additional tests such as the visual field test, color blindness test, or a retinal examination may be conducted to assess specific aspects of your eye health.

Once the examination is complete, the optometrist will discuss the findings with you and recommend any necessary treatments or lifestyle changes to maintain or improve your vision.