Eye Examinations

We know it is important to be thorough. That's why we offer a comprehensive eye examination that could uncover symptomless, potentially sight-threatening eye disorders and diseases that are not found by a simple vision screening. Our exams may take a little longer, but we wouldn't have it any other way.

Medical History

Since the eyes are a part of the body, they can be affected by seemingly unrelated health conditions. We must know about your general health and your medication including nonprescription medication prior to treatment.

Neurological Screenings

Evaluating the way your eyes and pupils work together and individually can tell us if the nerves and muscles controlling your eyes are working properly or require more investigation.

The Refraction

Doctor-controlled instruments plus patient-directed methods are used to obtain the best glasses prescription for you.

Visual Fields

Your ability to see to the side and above and below will be tested, if and when necessary.Threshold visual fields will be done if and when necessary.

Eye Health Testing

This takes up most of the examination. The microscope is used, the pupils are often dilated and the inside of the eye is viewed using the proper instruments. We can detect early signs of glaucoma, cataracts, hypertension, even diabetes.

Photography

Photographs of the front and/or the inside of the eyes are taken if there are findings that need to be reviewed and compared at a later date.

Consultation

All patients, parents, or guardians will be provided with an explanation of the findings, their significance, the treatment plan and other options. Your questions will be answered and the solutions to any difficulties will be reviewed.

Recommendations for Routine Eye Examinations as set forth by the American Optometric Association

PATIENT AGE	EXAMINATION INTERVAL
	Asymptomatic/Risk Free	At Risk
Birth to 24 months	By 6 months of age	By 6 months of age or as recommended
2 to 5 years	At 3 years of age	At 3 years of age or as recommended
6 to 18 years	Before first grade and every two years thereafter	Annually or as recommended
18 to 40 years	Every two to three years	Every one to two years or as recommended
41 to 60 years	Every two years	Every one to two years or as recommended
61 and older	Annually	Annually or as recommended

Patients should be advised to seek eye care more frequently than the recommended re-examination interval if new ocular, visual, or systemic health problems develop. In addition, the optometrist may recommend more frequent re-examinations of certain patients at risk. Such patients include those with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of glaucoma; those working in occupations that are highly demanding visually or eye hazardous; those taking prescription or nonprescription drugs with ocular side effects; and those with other health concerns or conditions.

 

From AOA Clinical Practice Guideline, Comprehensive Adult Eye and Vision Examination.