Eye exams aren’t only for people with poor vision. They’re an important way of detecting eye problems before you have symptoms. Eye doctors can also catch other health problems — like diabetes and glaucoma— early.
About Your Visit
Detect Eye Problems Before You Have Symptoms
WHAT TO EXPECT
After filling out paperwork, you’ll go to the examining room to meet the doctor. Here are some things you can expect.
You will be asked about your general health, medicines you are taking and any family history of eye diseases.
You’ll read from charts of random letters. Your doctor may also test other aspects of your vision such as your peripheral (side) vision, and color perception.
You will be tested to check the pressure in your eye with a device called a tonometer. Tonometry tests for glaucoma.
The exam will closely evaluate different parts of your eye with a device similar to a microscope called a slit lamp.
You will probably get drops to dilate your eyes: to make the pupils open wide. This will help your doctor get a clear view of the inside of your eye most notably the retina and macula. Dilation makes your eyes sensitive to light for a few hours. You’ll need to bring sunglasses and wear them after the exam until the drops wear off. You may need someone to drive you home if you do not feel safe driving.
Depending on your eye condition, you may need other additional tests or exams.
Patient Forms
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