5 Things to Expect at Your Routine Eye Exam

Do you or your loved one have an eye exam coming up? You know the exam has several parts, but you likely don’t know the function of all of the tests during the appointment. Our board-certified ophthalmologists with Wolchok Eye Associates, PA, assess all aspects of your eye health during a comprehensive exam. The following five expectations explain and demystify the eye exam. 

1. Visual acuity test with an eye chart

This test is the eye chart test. You look straight ahead with one eye covered and read letters on a specific line of the eye chart. You read the smallest letters that you can. Then, you repeat the test with the other eye covered. 

This visual acuity test determines how well you can see to know if you need glasses, new glasses, or a contacts prescription. The test detects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

If you need glasses, your doctor performs a refraction test to determine the right prescription for your glasses. You look through several lenses and let the doctor know which lens helps you see best for each eye. You leave with a prescription for your glasses.  

2. Peripheral vision test

A peripheral vision test is an essential part of your eye exam. Your doctor covers one eye, and you let your provider know when you can see a specific object or light in your side vision.   

Loss of peripheral vision is a signature symptom of glaucoma. The test can also help diagnose optic nerve damage and other eye diseases, like macular degeneration.

3. Ocular motility test of eye movement, muscles, and alignment

The ocular motility test assesses how your eye muscles work together. Your child may have 20/20 vision, but their eyes may not track together, making tasks like reading more challenging. 

This test is essential if your child is having academic trouble in school. If your child’s eyes don’t track well together, occupational therapy can help. The test also detects strabismus, or crossed eyes, where one eye turns inward.

4. Retina and optic nerve exam 

Your retina and optic nerve are crucial to your vision. This exam can identify early signs of eye diseases, such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration, preventing significant vision loss. 

Your doctor uses an instrument called an ophthalmoscope to see the optic nerve at the back of your eye. He also uses a magnifier to see the nerve in detail. Your doctor also checks your pupils to determine that they constrict and dilate. 

5. Intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement 

Your doctor measures the pressure inside your eye. If the pressure is high, it can be a preliminary sign of glaucoma. 

Ensure your eye health by making and keeping regular appointments for eye exams. Call Wolchok Eye Associates, PA, or request an appointment through our online portal today.