What to expect from an eye exam?

Eye exams play an important role in maintaining the health of the eyes. Diseases are often easier to treat in the initial stages, and hence, an early diagnosis not only offers a wider range of treatments, but a better prognosis as well.

Getting regular eye exams allows the doctor to diagnose eye disorders and issues in the earlier stages. Since a thorough eye exam also includes getting the vision checked, therefore, any problems with clarity of vision are also resolved.

A complete eye exam includes a wide range of tests, as your doctor at Maroof International Hospital will also tell you. Knowing the protocol involved helps patients better prepare for the exams.

When to get an eye exam?

Whereas in most cases of eye problems, doctors inform their patients as to when to get the exam, there are certain set conditions during which everyone needs to get their eyes evaluated.

Since aging affects eyes, hence people over the age of 40 need to get regular eye exams. The frequency might increase after the age of 65. Similarly, those already with health complications like diabetes that also affect the eyes need to get regular exams.

Furthermore, if you have a history of eye disease, or have genetic predisposition towards it, you also need to get exams done. But exams are not only for people who are older, but toddlers also need eye exams to check for their vision development. Generally, children aged 3 to 5 are checked for eye problems.

Moreover, school-aged children also need an eye exam done, especially when they complain about not being able to see the board.

How to prepare for an eye exam?

Before setting out to visit your doctor, you need to prepare yourself. Gather all your relevant prescriptions. Similarly, since your doctor is likely to also ask for the rest of your medical history, be ready to answer such questions as well.

The preparation is also contingent on which expert you are visiting. Optometrists are doctors who check and evaluate the eyes, providing treatment for it. Ophthalmology on the other hand, involves all this expertise, alongside performing surgery as well.

What are the different types of eye exams?

There are different eye exams that evaluate different facets like vision, your reflexes etc. Few of the commonly performed tests include:

Visual acuity

This test is aimed at checking your vision. It involves reading a list of alphabets in different font sizes to check how well you can see. This test is performed on each eye. It helps the doctor find the perfect prescription for your eyes.

Automatic refraction

This is an extension of the visual acuity, except in it, the refraction is checked automatically, without the response from the person. It is conducted in cases where communication is a problem.

Color vision testing

Color vision testing helps in ascertaining if there is a problem with distinguishing between different colors, which is commonly observed with color blindness.

Corneal topography

This test involves mapping the structure of the eyes. Corneal topography helps ascertain the curvature of the cornea. It’s also often done prior to the different eye procedures.

Eye muscle test

As the name also suggests, this test evaluates the movement of the eyes. If there is poor muscular coordination or control, the doctor can then pick on it.

Vision field

Vision field helps in checking peripheral vision, which is vital as well. This test involves holding an object in front of the eyes and is gently moving to the sides.

Ophthalmoscopy

Also known as fundoscopy, this test allows your doctor to get a clearer view of the eye.

Slit-lap exam

Slip lap also allows your doctor to view the inside of the eyes with magnification.

What happens after the exam?

Depending on the results of the exam, your Eye specialist in Islamabad will then devise a treatment plan, if needed.