An eye examination consists of a series of tests that evaluate your vision and check for eye and systemic conditions. Regular eye exams allow your doctor to detect problems or diseases at an early stage, when an issue is most treatable. Vision changes are also detected during eye exams and doctors can help you correct or adapt to those changes.
During an eye exam, Dr. Emily Dold will take time asking you about your ocular (eye) and medical history. A detailed history is taken to assure all of your concerns regarding your vision are addressed. They will perform a series of tests to evaluate your vision and the overall health of your eyes. Many tests involve special lights to assess the minute details of the eye and visual system.
Multiple tests may be performed to determine your eye health and examine all parts of your eye.
Dr. Emily Dold notes that with an eye exam, you get a mini-physical exam (through your eyes) for conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, a neurological screening, and of course, you are evaluated for all eye conditions. Age, overall health, family history and increased risk of eye conditions affect the recommended frequency for having an eye exam.
InfantSEE
Even if no eye or vision problems are apparent, the American Optometric Association recommends scheduling your baby's first eye assessment at 6 months of age.
Preschool Age Children
The eye exam at this stage is comprehensive, but is based mostly on objective findings (from the optometrist's perspective). Children do not need to know the alphabet or to be able to name letters on the eye chart in order to undergo a comprehensive eye exam. Common anomalies such as lazy eye (amblyopia) and strabismus (crossed or drifting eye) can be detected and treatment can be recommended before the conditions embed to become more difficult to treat.
School-Age Children & Adolescents
Comprehensive eye exams are recommended annually for this age group. Evaluations may be more frequent depending on exam findings and recommended treatment.
Adults
Annual exams are recommended! However, if your eye and systemic health have been unremarkable and your sight is acceptable and stable, use the following guideline:
18-40 Years Old: Every 1-2 years
41-60 Years Old: Every 1-2 years
>61 Years Old: Every year
Have more frequent eye exams if you wear glasses, if you have been diagnosed with an eye disease, if there is significant family history of eye disease, or if you are at greater risk for developing an eye condition.
If you wear contact lenses you should have an annual eye exam.