Regular eye exams are an opportunity to check your vision, allowing you to get the corrective measures—like eyeglasses or contact lenses—you need to see clearly. They also allow an eye doctor to check for signs of ocular health issues that could damage your eyesight in the future. If you’re due for an exam, find out what to expect below.

When Should You Get Screened?

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends kids get screened annually. For adults aged 40-plus with no risk factors for eye diseases, an exam every two to four years is sufficient. Those with a greater risk of problems—such as diabetics—should get screened more frequently. After age 65, annual exams are recommended for everyone. 

What Will Happen During Your Eye Exam?

A visual acuity test will assess the sharpness of your vision. You will be asked to read out letters on an eye chart. This is usually followed by a cover test to evaluate for problems like “lazy eye” or strabismus, a condition in which the eyes don’t align properly.

One eye is covered while the doctor asks you to focus on a small object across the room. The doctor will also test your eye muscle movements, for example, by asking you to follow their finger.

Next, you will be given drops to dilate the pupils. The eye doctor can then measure the pressure in your eye—high pressure is an indicator for glaucoma, an ailment that can cause blindness if not caught early. While waiting for the drops to take effect, the doctor will evaluate your eyes using a small hand-held light. 

Eric G. Stocker, OD provides eye exams to residents of Amherst, OH, and the surrounding Lorain County community. With over 30 years of experience, this eye doctor is known for friendly and competent care. He and his team rely on cutting-edge tools and technology to diagnose ailments from macular degeneration to cataracts. Visit their website to find out more about their eye exams and treatments. To schedule your eye exam, call (440) 988-4419.