What does a comprehensive eye exam include?
A comprehensive eye exam includes both vision testing and evaluation of eye health. Dr. Chow starts with a vision and health history, and he usually checks all of the following during a comprehensive eye exam.
- Visual acuity: eye charts and other acuity tests
- Peripheral vision: side vision tests to check for early signs of glaucoma
- Pupil retraction: how your pupils respond to light
- Eye motility: how your eyes move
- Intraocular eye pressure (IOP): checks for high IOP, an early glaucoma indicator
- Outer eye health: exam of your cornea, iris, and lens
- Inner eye health: exam of your retina and optic nerve
Dr. Chow may also do specialized imaging tests such as optical coherence tomography or fundus photos to evaluate your eyes more precisely if needed.
When do I get my eyeglass prescription?
You’ll get a new glasses prescription after your comprehensive eye exam or vision screening. Dr. Chow uses the information from your visual acuity tests to determine an approximate prescription strength to start with.
Then, you’ll look through a series of lenses and give feedback. Dr. Chow generally flips between a couple of prescription strengths at a time so you can say “better,” “worse,” or “about the same” to help him narrow down your ideal prescription.
You then work with a friendly team member to choose new eyeglasses frames, special lens treatments, or otherwise customize your glasses.
When should children have eye exams?
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends a vision screening for all children when they’re starting school. Dr. Chow sees pediatric patients starting at age 5. If your child has one of the following issues, Dr. Chow may perform a comprehensive eye exam:
- Your child fails a vision screening
- Your child’s pediatrician or school recommends it
- Your child has a chronic condition that can cause eye problems
- Your child has a learning, behavioral, or neuropsychological issue
After Dr. Chow performs your child’s vision screening or comprehensive eye exam, he recommends a frequency of visits. Most children need yearly eye exams before the start of each school year.
When should adults get eye exams?
All adults should have a comprehensive eye exam at age 40. However, if you have chronic conditions that can lead to eye health problems such as diabetes or high blood pressure (hypertension), or a genetic predisposition to eye disease, you should begin comprehensive eye exams earlier according to Dr. Chow’s recommendations.
Future eye exam frequency is based on your individual needs, so Dr. Chow recommends an exam frequency that suits you. Most patients benefit from yearly eye exams.
For eye exams from a medical doctor who specializes in eye care, call David K. Chow, MD, or schedule an appointment online today.
