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| Eye Exam Guidelines |  |
When should an eye exam be scheduled?
The American Optometric Association recommends regular eye examinations to detect vision deficiencies and disease. How often you see the eye doctor depends on your age and stage in life.
- Initial visit at 6 months of age
- At age 3
- At age 5, or just before entering school
- Every two years throughout school ages
- Every two to three years, from age 19 to 40
- Every one to two years, from age 41 to 60
- Every year after reaching age 60
You should also see your eye specialist at any time if you notice unusual symptoms such as:
- Visual disturbances
- Redness in one or both eyes
- Swelling or pain in one or both eyes
- Worsening vision
An eye examination is an evaluation of visual acuity as well as the health of your eyes, and usually includes a glaucoma test, retinal evaluation, and computerized peripheral vision field test. A thorough eye exam will detect eye health problems, prevent deteriorating eyesight, and provide a prescription if corrective or contact lenses are needed for reading, distance, computer use, or any combination of these.
Which of the “Os” should be called for an exam?
Whom should you see when it’s time for an eye examination? Do you call an ophthalmologist, optometrist, or optician? They are all specialists in eyecare, but each provides specific services and it’s a good idea to know the differences.
An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (M.D.) or doctor of osteopathy (D.O) who specializes in the medical and surgical care of the eyes and in preventing eye disease. This eyecare professional undergoes many years of medical education and training, and is licensed by a state regulatory board to practice medicine and surgery.
An optometrist (O.D.) is a primary eyecare provider who examines, diagnoses, treats and manages diseases and disorders of the eye and associated structures. In accordance with state law, optometrists prescribe, fit and dispense ocular medications, glasses and contact lenses. An optometrist cannot perform surgery, but often works with an ophthalmologist on pre- and post-surgical care.
Opticians make lenses, frames, and contacts lenses. They analyze and interpret prescriptions and determine the lens best suited for the patient.
For an eye examination, make an appointment with an ophthalmologist or optometrist.
The Eye Exam
An eye examination should be a regular part of everyone’s health care program. It’s easy, painless, takes just a couple hours of time and can prevent serious problems that could damage your vision.
The first time you visit an eye doctor, you’ll be asked about both your personal and family medical histories. Come prepared with information about any medications you’re taking or allergies you have, as well as any history of eye problems in your family. When making an appointment, find out the examination fee and ask what services or tests will be included in that fee. You may want to compare prices with several different doctors, but be certain that the doctor you select provides a thorough and comprehensive exam — that’s the most important factor.
During the exam, the doctor will look at the exterior and interior of your eyes. Examining the eyes can reveal diseases showing no symptoms. High blood pressure, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and arteriosclerosis, which can heighten the risk of heart attack and stroke, can be uncovered during an eye exam.
A series of tests will determine your ability to see clearly both up close and at a distance. The doctor will check for nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, focusing ability, depth perception, and color vision. He or She will also see if the eye muscles work well together. In addition, the doctor will conduct a glaucoma test, which involves either a quick puff of air in your eye as you’re looking into a computerized machine, or a light touch to the eye with an instrument that resembles a pen.
A complete eye examination lets you know that you have no eye disease or other underlying health concerns that could affect your vision. And an exam provides you with the opportunity to ask the eye doctor any questions you may have regarding, for instance, subtle changes you may have noticed in your vision, which lighting options would be easiest on your eyes for reading, or eye safety where you work. Be sure to discuss your concerns with your doctor — it’s an important part of your visit.
If you do need corrective lenses, the doctor will discuss the choices available to you. There is a wide array of lenses, frames, and contacts available. Your doctor can help you select the best option for you.
