Eyesight problems can affect your quality of life. That’s why you should schedule an annual comprehensive eye exam. An eye doctor can assess changes in vision, test for diseases, and check for and address any abnormalities. Catching and treating problems early helps keep your eyesight intact. To prepare for the appointment, below is an overview of what to expect.

What to Expect From Your First Eye Exam

1. Paperwork

When you get to the office, a receptionist asks you to fill out new patient forms. The paperwork generally includes a list of common eye diseases and chronic health problems, so check off all that apply. The forms also ask for a detailed family medical history, as well as any medications you’re currently taking. The optometrist reviews the information and asks follow-up questions to determine your risk of developing certain conditions.

2. Eye Exam From a Doctor

After reviewing your medical history, the doctor uses state-of-the-art equipment to examine every part of your ocular structure. For example, a slit lamp helps magnify the eye, making it easier to see deformities in the retina, cornea, and other parts of the eye. An ophthalmoscope projects light through the lens to help the optometrist examine the back of the eye for flaws.

3. Visual Acuity Test

Changes in vision can be subtle, which is why the eye exam includes a visual acuity test. Close one eye and use the other to read out loud the letters and numbers on an eye chart, which is placed 20 feet away. Repeat the process with the other eye. As you move from row to row, the characters become smaller. A doctor can gain a general idea of what prescription you need based on the lines you get correct.

If you already wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. The doctor can jot down your current prescription, which comes in handy when they perform a refraction assessment. This is when you look at the chart again through different lenses to see which pairing makes the characters easiest to see clearly. Additionally, testing will be done to test central and peripheral vision capabilities.

For a thorough eye exam, contact Griebenow Eyecare in Clintonville, or New London, Wisconsin. Since 1979, residents throughout Waupaca and Outagamie Counties have been visiting the clinic for eye exams, treatments, and new designer eyewear. To schedule an eye exam, call (800) 427-9585. Visit the optometrists online to view and download patient forms before your checkup, and keep up with announcements after your visit on Facebook.