What are five tests included in an eye exam?

What Are Five Tests Included in an Eye Exam?

A comprehensive eye exam includes a variety of tests that assess both your vision and overall eye health. These tests help detect issues early and ensure you receive the correct prescription for glasses or contact lenses. Here are five key tests commonly performed during a standard eye exam at City Optics:

1. Visual Acuity Test

This is the most familiar part of the eye exam, where you read letters from a chart (called a Snellen chart) at various distances. It measures how well you can see objects both up close and far away. The result is your prescription for corrective lenses, if needed.

2. Refraction Test

The refraction test helps determine the exact lens power you need to correct your vision. During this test, the optometrist will ask you to look through a phoropter, switching between different lens options to find which one provides the clearest vision. This ensures your prescription is accurate for glasses or contact lenses.

3. Eye Pressure Test (Tonometry)

Tonometry is used to measure the pressure inside your eye (intraocular pressure), which is important for detecting glaucoma. Elevated eye pressure can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss if left untreated. The test is quick and painless, often involving a puff of air to the eye or a small probe that gently touches the surface of the eye.

4. Retinal Exam

Also called ophthalmoscopy, this test allows the optometrist to examine the back of your eye, including the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels. The retinal exam is essential for detecting eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal tears or detachments.

5. Slit-Lamp Examination

The slit-lamp exam uses a special microscope to examine the front part of your eye, including the cornea, iris, lens, and eyelids. This test helps diagnose conditions such as cataracts, corneal injuries, and dry eye syndrome by providing a detailed view of the eye’s structures.

Additional Tests Depending on Your Needs

Depending on your age, risk factors, or symptoms, additional tests may be included, such as:

OCT Scans: To check for retinal diseases.
Visual Field Test: To assess peripheral vision, often used for detecting glaucoma.

City Optics: Comprehensive Eye Exams

At City Optics, our eye exams are thorough, ensuring both your vision and overall eye health are taken care of. We use state-of-the-art technology to perform these essential tests, providing you with an accurate prescription and early detection of potential issues.