Regular checks of your vision are imperative for keeping your eyesight acute and your eyes healthy. Even if you are not noticing any signs of deterioration, don't postpone the visit to an ophthalmologist. However, if you feel that your vision gets worse, it is recommended to immediately schedule a meeting with an eye expert. To gain peace of mind before going to a clinic, it is also advised to learn what the eye exam procedure looks like, how a doctor will make an assessment to detect and diagnose vision injuries and defects, and how to understand and decrypt your prescriptions for eyeglasses or contact lenses.
What the eye doctor does during an eye examination
Every patient of a specialist should expect a series of medical tests conducted to identify if there are refractive errors. The specialist's key tasks during the procedure are:
- to provide a routine extensive examination;
- to conduct a range of tests, e.g. retinoscopy or a refraction eye exam, depending on patient's complaints to determine eye-related troubles;
- patients who are experiencing age-related symptoms must additionally undergo an intraocular pressure measurement to spot if there is a risk of glaucoma;
- based on obtained results and data, the health care specialist must come up with a personalized treatment solution (glasses, lenses, surgery).
Common eye exam procedures
To detect astigmatism, an eye doctor may apply various medical tools (for example, a refractometer that measures a refractive index) or ask a patient to look through different lenses types.
For testing your distance, as well as near, vision acuity, a specially designed chart that is fixed at a specific distance will be also applied.
If some defects or physical irregularities will be identified, a doctor, using a diagnostic instrument, known as a phoropter, will define how to correct a patient's vision and individually will prescribe lenses or glasses.
How to understand the results of an eye exam?
Decoding the ophthalmologist findings, you will be capable of understanding and analyzing the refractive error degree and the degree of impairment of your vision.
For example, having +0.25 on your test means you have mild hyperopia. Receiving more than +5 is about the farsightedness of high intensity, and such a condition requires immediate correction to restore the quality of vision and life.
When it comes to reading eyeglass prescriptions, you must be aware of the axis indicators. This number may range between 1 to 180. Another number that the medical instruction provided by doctors may include is cylinder measurements. It allows analyzing the lens power that is needed to fix a condition when you have deteriorated both near and distance visions.
To specify information for the left and right eye, usually, such abbreviations are used:
- to find details about the left eye, look for OS abbreviation;
- OD letters are used to denote the right eye.
A range of other data may be included in the results, so it is of high importance to gain comprehensive diagnosis, consultation, and advice delivered by knowledgeable and proficient experts in a reputable clinic.
Can you buy contacts based on the eyeglass prescription?
Prescriptions provided by an eye specialist for your glasses must be used only for purchasing glasses. It cannot be used as a prescription for contacts. If you've received medical instruction for buying glasses but want to start wearing lenses, the data indicated in the prescription must be accurately and properly re-calculated. Otherwise, you will get poorly suited lenses. It will not fix your defect but will exacerbate the issue, so you may feel a high level of discomfort.
Luckily, there is no need to visit your doctor, as you can use the spectacle modification calculator available online that assists in converting available parameters for gaining accurate results for your lenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to get an eye exam?
Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining good eyesight and overall eye health. Even if you don't notice any vision problems, seeing an ophthalmologist can help detect issues early. If you experience any changes in your vision, it's important to schedule an exam promptly.
What happens during an eye exam?
During an eye exam, the eye doctor will conduct a series of tests to check for refractive errors and other eye-related issues. This may include tests like retinoscopy, refraction eye exams, and intraocular pressure measurements if age-related symptoms are present.
How do I understand my eye exam results?
Understanding your eye exam results involves analyzing the refractive error degree and any vision impairment. For example, a +0.25 indicates mild hyperopia, while a number above +5 signifies high-intensity farsightedness that needs correction.
Can I use my eyeglass prescription to buy contact lenses?
No, eyeglass prescriptions cannot be used to purchase contact lenses. If you want to switch from glasses to contacts, you need a separate prescription that accurately reflects the necessary adjustments for lenses.
What tests are commonly performed during an eye exam?
Common tests during an eye exam include vision acuity tests using a chart, refractive measurements with instruments like a refractometer, and assessments using a phoropter to determine lens prescriptions. These tests help identify any vision defects.
What should I do if I notice changes in my vision?
If you notice any changes in your vision, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an eye-care professional immediately. Prompt evaluation can help detect and address any underlying issues.
How can I prepare for my eye exam?
To prepare for your eye exam, it can be helpful to familiarize yourself with the exam procedures and what to expect. Bringing any current eyewear and a list of symptoms or concerns can also assist the doctor in making an accurate assessment.
