Although your eyes do the seeing for you, it isn’t always easy to see when these vital organs need help. This is why it’s important to visit a trusted ophthalmologist or optometrist for an eye exam about once a year. Even if you haven’t noticed any changes in vision yourself, these in-depth evaluations can determine if prescription lenses could boost your sight or if you’re at risk for an ocular disease. If you’re due for a checkup, this brief guide can help you prepare for the simple but informative exam process.

What Patients Can Expect During Eye Exams

1. General Review

At the start of the appointment, you should discuss any specific vision concerns you have, so your eye doctor will know to check for certain things. Your doctor will also ask about any health conditions impairing sight, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

2. Visual Assessment

The doctor will then take a close look at your eyes to get a basic idea of your overall ocular health. During this step, your provider will see how your eyes respond to light and how they move. They will also address any visible physical changes in the eye.

3. Vision Tests

Visual acuity is first measured by having you read a standard vision chart. If it seems like you may need glasses or contact lenses, your specialist will perform a refractive test. This test involves looking through a scope and measuring how well you can see when looking through different prescription lenses. The results will be used to help you get the best eyewear for comfortable vision.

4. Disease Evaluation

Apart from vision tests, you may also go through a variety of quick tests to assess your risk for specific ocular diseases. For instance, a tonometry test uses a light stream of air to measure the pressure of your eye and determine any presence of glaucoma. Your specialist might also use digital imaging tools to assess the condition of your retina to see if you are affected by blood vessel damage.  

5. Eyewear Decisions

If your exam reveals that you need a new prescription, you’ll most likely finish your appointment by selecting eyewear. Most clinics will have a variety of glasses that you can choose from and have properly fitted by an optician. If you prefer contact lenses, your specialist will introduce you to a variety of options and educate you on how to wear them correctly.

If you’re looking for a stress-free eye exam in the Greensboro or High Point, NC, area, turn to the trusted specialists at Digby Eye Associates. Led by Don Digby, M.D.—a corneal fellowship trained ophthalmologist—this team uses the latest resources to ensure a quick, comprehensive checkup. To help you see clearly and comfortably, these specialists can also introduce you to the very best in glasses and contact lenses. Visit the practice online to learn more about these services, or call (336) 230-1010 to schedule a convenient appointment.