A routine eye examination involves using vision-measuring instruments, such as lettered charts, to determine your ability to see objects at different distances. Eye examinations help protect a patient’s eye from diseases and infections that may worsen over time. Here are some tests performed in a routine eye exam:
Visual Acuity Test
A vision screening helps to identify what a patient is able to see up close and at a distance. An optometrist uses a lettered chart, which the patient reads aloud, covering one eye at a time. The patient then reads from a smaller chart placed closer to the eyes. The results are then interpreted to determine a baseline for a refraction test.
Refraction Test
A refraction test is used when a person’s prescription for spectacles needs to be set or upgraded. This test assists optometrists in determining the right glasses and contact lenses necessary for clear and comfortable vision. Refraction tests help eye doctors diagnose errors that include myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. An optometrist can prescribe high-quality lenses crafted to improve each patient’s vision needs. Regular refraction tests allow the clinic to monitor a patient’s eye development over time while continually modifying the lenses to improve their vision.
Eye Muscle Test
Eye muscle tests examine the functionality of eye muscles that control movement and alignment. An optometrist evaluates the range of motion to detect neurological conditions that may limit movement. Assessing eye alignment enables eye doctors to detect conditions such as strabismus that disrupt binocular vision. Regular eye exams can help specialists monitor changes in eye function and maintain clear and coordinated patient vision.
Pupil Dilation
A pupil dilation test gives doctors a better view of a patient’s internal eye structure. Eye drops temporarily dilate pupils for retina and optic nerve examinations. Optometrists examine the optic nerve and other internal structures of the eye to identify damage that may lead to glaucoma. This allows early detection and treatment to preserve a patient’s vision.
Tonometry
Tonometry measures the fluid pressure inside the eye to test for corneal conditions that affect intraocular pressure (IOP). An elevated IOP may indicate ocular hypertension that can result in glaucoma. Combining the IOP test and pupil dilation can help eye doctors detect early signs of damage to the eye’s internal structures. Regular eye check-ups involve monitoring IOP readings to catch any abnormal changes.
Visual Field Test
A visual field test examines the patient’s peripheral vision and detects any abnormalities. This test can reveal signs of neurological issues that may not be directly related to eye health. Strokes or tumors affecting the optic nerve may cause visual field deficits such as vision loss in the same half of both eyes. Changes in the visual field can indicate underlying issues that may require further tests.
Slit-Lamp Examination
A slit-lamp exam allows optometrists to assess the surface and deeper layers of the eye. The slit-lamp exam can detect eye infections, such as conjunctivitis, and other inflammation, including uveitis. An optometrist may prescribe treatments to prevent these infections from developing further. Older adults with diabetes can benefit from a slit-lamp exam, as it detects diseases such as macular degeneration.
Schedule an Eye Exam
A routine eye examination helps optometrists detect infections and diseases early to manage and treat them effectively. Look for an eye doctor who offers a range of tests to make sure they can assess your vision and eye health concerns. Contact an optometrist today to schedule an eye exam.
