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Your Eyes |
An eye examination is carried out by an optometrist and usually takes about 20 - 30
minutes (but may take longer if extra specific tests are required).This will normally
include the following elements:
Symptoms
Why are you having your eyes examined? Is it a routine check-up or have you come for a
specific reason such as VDU screening. If you are experiencing problems with your eyes or
vision, your practitioner will need to know: what symptoms you have, how long you have
had them, and whether any changes have happened suddenly or slowly over a period of time.
History
Your optometrist will need to know about your general health including any medication you are
taking, whether you suffer from headaches, currently wear spectacles or contact
lenses, or have any close relatives with a history of eye problems etc. Additional
information, which will help your practitioner to make an accurate assessment, includes
your occupation, whether you play sports or have any hobbies etc.
Examining the Eye
Your eyes will be examined both externally and internally. This will enable an assessment
to be made of the general health of your eyes and identify any other underlying medical
problems. The interior of your eye will be examined using an ophthalmoscope which shines
a light through the pupil allowing a detailed study of the internal structures.
Other tests which may be carried out, if necessary, include those for glaucoma
or colour vision deficiency. If you are over 40, the College of Optometrists recommends
you should have the three glaucoma tests: to check the pressure in your eyes, your field
of vision and to have an internal inspection of the eye.
Vision
Your vision will be measured both with and without spectacles or lenses in front of the
eyes to check for any problems with your eyesight.
Your optometrist will do a series of tests to measure the type and extent of any problem
with your vision. You will then be asked to choose between different lenses to see which
ones help the quality and clarity of your vision.
Eye movements & Co-ordination
Eye movements and co-ordination are checked to make sure that both eyes are working
together, and that undue stress is not being placed on their muscles. Good muscle balance
is particularly important for those who use computers, drive etc.
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