Eye health is about more than the ability to see. It is also about maintaining a healthy pressure inside your eye. It's about making sure issues like ocular cancer are detected early so they can be treated. You rely on your eyes almost every minute of every day, so of course you want to take eye health seriously — every aspect of it. You can learn more about the breadth of eye care and the work of optometrists on this blog. Reading here is not a replacement for seeing your optometrist, but it can be a good way to boost your knowledge.
Eye exams are important and should be started in children before they start going to school, and adults should have an eye exam at least once per year. But just because these are the things you should do, doesn't mean it is what you will actually do. If you haven't been to the eye doctor for a while or you've never been there before, read on for what you can expect when you go.
Bring Information With You
You're going to need to bring any important medical information with you, and you're also going to need to bring insurance information with you. You'll be filling out paperwork so you're going to need to have this information on hand. The family history and medical information will be helpful in determining if there are any medical issues that the optometrist will need to keep an eye out for. If you aren't sure of your medical history, it's best to contact your family for this information ahead of time.
Tests Will Be Taken
The optometrist will give you tests such as a glaucoma test and a dilation test, both of which are optional. If you don't want these tests performed, you can opt out of them. If you are older, the glaucoma test should be given to be sure you don't have glaucoma. The dilation test can find other eye issues, but if your eyes are dilated, it can make driving after your appointment difficult. If you do intend on having the dilation test, be sure you have someone to drive you home afterward. Another test is a vision screening, where you will be asked to look at a screen or a chart through a number of lenses and your optometrist will ask you which can you see better. Take your time and answer to the best of your knowledge. With younger children, be sure your child takes his/her time to look at the screen and choose which is best to determine their correct vision.
A Prescription Is Given
After your test, your optometrist will go through your vision results with you. If there are any concerns, they will discuss these with you at this time. They will let you know if you or your child need to wear eyeglasses or if contacts would be better for you. They will also discuss with you how often you need to wear your eyeglasses, such as only when driving or when reading.
If you haven't had an eye exam before, you may be apprehensive about going. Your vision is important and should be cared for, and getting regular eye exams are important as well. For more information about eye exams, contact a professional.