About Vision Checkup
This information is intended for general information only and should not be considered as medical advice on the part of Health-Tourism.com. Any decision on medical treatments, after-care or recovery should be done solely upon proper consultation and advice of a qualified physician.
Vision Checkup
A vision checkup, otherwise known as an eye exam is a test done to determine the health of your eyes and signs of general health problems. It is undertaken by an optometrist and takes between 20-30 minutes. Occasionally, one may need extra tests, and it may take slightly longer than this.
History and Symptoms- Upon requesting for an eye examination, the optometrist begins by asking why one is being examined. Usually, they want to find out if it is a routine check-up, or there is a specific reason necessitating the check-up. The optometrist may also ask if there is a history of eye problems in your family, and if you have had eye problems before.
- In case you are experiencing problems with your eyes, the optometrist enquires what symptoms you have been experiencing and for how long you have had them. If there are changes to your vision, the optometrists ought to ask whether they have happened suddenly or gradually.
- Your general health, including any medication you may be taking, is also of concern. Common symptoms such as headaches and tensions should be indicated at this stage if at all any. If one has been using glasses or contact lenses before, the optometrist should know. Additionally, they may inquire about your work whether one plays sports, and the kind of hobbies one is involved in.
Examining Your Eyes- To assess the health of your eyes, and find underlying problems if any, the optometrist examines both the outside and inside of your eye. These tests should show any problems that may exist.
- The optometrist examines the exterior of the eye, looking for signs of injury and other common eye ailments. Signs of cataracts may be visible and can be confirmed with an internal eye exam.
- An ophthalmoscope is used to examine the inside part of the eye. It is a special torch which shines light through the pupil, to allow for a detailed study of the internal structures of the eye. The optometrist also tests the pupil reflexes.
- There are extra tests that may or may not necessarily be offered for the eye checkup. These include photography of the internal and external eye and fitting for contact lenses. A majority of optometrists offer these tests but at an additional cost.
- Before the eye examination is over, eye movements and coordination should also be checked to ascertain that both eyes are working together. The eye muscles should also be checked to make sure they are not subjected to undue stress. Good muscle balance is especially vital for individuals who read or use computers a lot.
Choosing Glasses or Contact Lenses- If you have been given a prescription for vision correction, you will be assisted in choosing glasses or contact lenses. Should one opt for contact lenses, they will be advised on the available types, how to fit them, as well as how to clean and look after them.
- Should you be dissatisfied with your glasses or contact lenses, you should seek help from your practice. Part of your optometrist’s continuing care and service is to assist during such occurrences, and they should readily assist with any minor repairs and adjustments where necessary. According to the College of Optometrists, it is advisable to buy glasses or contacts from the same practice where you got examined. This makes it easier to sort out any problems that may arise afterward.
- Most optometrists often give a date for your next checkup. Additionally, they remind you when the appointment is due. However, should you have any problem, seek immediate help.
After care : By this time, the optometrist has all the details regarding the health of your eyes and the standard of your vision, as well as any special requirements that you may need. If there is any problem with your visual health, you will be able to discuss it, and the form of vision correction that best suits your condition. Any individual lifestyle that one may need to adopt should be explored at this juncture.
If you require further medical attention for your eye condition, you will be advised after the eye examination. You may be referred to a doctor or given a prescription for glasses or contact lenses, or a statement to confirm that your eyes don’t need correction.
Should there be any questions or concerns, they should be addressed before leaving the optometrist’s clinic.
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