If it’s been more than a year since your last routine eye exam, it may be time to visit a vision specialist for a check-up. During these evaluations, your ophthalmologist will take an in-depth look at the physical health of your eyes and measure vision strength. But how exactly is this done? Keep reading to discover what you should expect during your next ocular exam.

What Happens During an Eye Exam?

Medical Overview

Since your overall health can impact your eyes, your ocular specialist will review your medical history. Typically, doctors are looking out for chronic health conditions—such as diabetes and high blood pressure—that could contribute to ocular diseases like glaucoma and retinopathy.

Functional Assessment

Your provider will closely inspect the eyes to ensure there are no visible issues that could impair their function. To track movement, control, and responsiveness, the specialist will have you follow a light with your eyes.

Vision Testing

Vision testing is the major portion of the eye exam that determines how well you can see. Initially, testing will involve reading a vision chart to measure basic sight abilities. If impairments are present, you will take a refractive vision test to find out which strength of prescription lenses can help improve your sight.

Eye Disease Screening

In addition to checking your vision, your provider will screen for ocular diseases through a variety of simple tests. Glaucoma risk, for instance, is measured using what’s known as a tonometry test—when a gentle puff of air is directed toward the eye to measure ocular pressure. Many ophthalmologists will also take digital images of the inside of the eye to detect potential damage to blood vessels—a sign of hypertensive or diabetic retinopathy.  

Eyewear Fitting

If you do need prescription lenses, a specialist may conclude the appointment by helping you explore the eyewear options. If you’re getting glasses, you will work with an optometrist to pick the perfect pair of frames and have them fitted properly. If you’re opting for contact lenses, the provider will make sure you can put them on and clean them properly.

Are you curious about your ocular health? Medical Eye Center is a leading resource for comfortable and convenient eye exams in Columbia, MD. Using the latest industry tools, these experienced ophthalmologists can accurately pinpoint vision and ocular disease issues—and offer advanced treatment to protect your sight. To learn more about their comprehensive services, visit this trusted vision center online. For appointments, call (410) 997-9900.