subject: Your Eye Exam Eye-q [print this page] The last time you were at your optometrist or ophthalmologist, what did you take away from the experience? Did you understand any of the optical jargon your doctor used? As you were being led through the eye exam, was your doctor explaining anything to you? Chances are, you were probably left in the dark while your doctor performed the examination. Sound familiar? Before your next eye exam, brush up on your knowledge and improve your eye exam IQ! It will make your next eye exam experience go by more quickly and you will walk away understanding more about your eyes and their needs!
How often should children have their eyes examined if they have no significant risk factors for vision problems?
Answer: Every one to two years. Is this answer shocking to you? It shouldnt be! Vision is linked to the learning process and, to be on the safe side, your childs eyes should be checked every year or two - depending on the doctors recommendations. If you notice a drastic change in your son or daughters grades, you may want to take the opportunity to get another eye exam to rule out vision problems. Additionally, premature birth, crossed eyes, and a family history of eye conditions and diseases can increase your childs risk of developing an eye problem. Regular checkups with catch any conditions early.
What is the most common purpose of dilating eye drops?
Answer: Dilating eye drops allow for a better view of the interior of the eyes. Your eye health is so important that common folk dont realize theres more to your eye than just the outside! The inside of your eye contains so many different compartments that the easiest way to look into it is to dilate the pupils. A regular vision screening, like the ones done at the DMV for the driver's license eye test; an eye chart at pediatrician's office; or eye test performed by school nurse, is not comprehensive enough to really diagnose any eye disease. For this reason, dilating eye drops are helpful so your doctor can get the full picture.
True or False: People over the age of 60 dont need to have their eyes tested and examined anymore.
Answer: False. Its important for people over the age of 60 to have their eyes checked every year! When you get older, your risk for developing an eye disease increases. Additionally, many eye diseases present no symptoms in the early stages but, with regular visits to the eye doctor, your doctor will be able to catch it earlier. Early detection and treatment can drastically reduce your chances of having permanent vision loss.
As you can tell, theres more to your vision examinations than meets the eye! At your next eye exam, bring your familys health history, a complete list of your medications, and your current pair of prescription eye glasses or contact lenses. Once you leave, take a copy of your prescriptions with you. That way you can look to buy glasses online or from another doctor. Even if you are the healthiest person in the world, make sure youre getting your eyes checked every year or two to keep yourself healthy!
