Should you get your eyes tested?
It’s probably a question that pops into your mind every now and then, but who has the time in this day and age? Unfortunately, having a busy schedule does not change the fact that we should get our eyes tested regularly for a variety of reasons.
Those reasons could include things like Glaucoma, Age-related macular degeneration, cataracts and diabetic retinopathy, so making sure you book that appointment if you have been putting it off.
Adults should book an appointment for an eye test at least once every two years, particularly if you work in an environment that could affect your eyesight (such as in front of a computer) or if your family has of history with eye problems. For those of us over sixty, that should be extended to at least once a year and children are advised to see an optometrist for an eye health test at 6 months, 3 years and again before they start school.
Book an eye test at your local EyeQ stores now
What To Expect From An Eye Exam
When you call ahead to make your eye health examination booking, make sure you are prepared. Jot down a few questions you may have for the optometrist so you don’t forget them and remember to pack your contacts and glasses to show the eye doctor when you get there.
The eye test should take no more than 60 minutes and will cover a whole series of comprehensive tests that test both the acuity and the health of your eyes. Let the optometrist know when you arrive if you have come for a regular check-up or if you have a specific reason for your visit. If the latter is the case, be descriptive. The better you describe the problem you are having, the better we are able to find a solution.
The optometrist on duty will start with a pre-assessment that covers the following:
- A general eye health check, such as eye lid condition and clarity of the eye
- A visual acuity assessment
- A stereoscopic and colour vision assessment
- A check on pupil sizes and whether they match or not
- A check on basic alignment of the eyes
- And an eye movement test
The next will be a refractive error test, or more commonly called refraction testing. This will determine whether you are short sighted, far sighted or have Astigmatism. This part of the test is particularly helpful should you suffer from Presbyopia or have trouble reading.
The last part of the eye test will entail a Binocularity test. During this, the optometrist will take fine measurements of your eyes to check eye alignment to help provide a proper prescription should you need one. The eye doctor will also do a full exterior examination of the eye using a slit lamp and a full interior examination of the eye using an ophthalmoscope. This will ensure that your eye is healthy or whether you need to see a specialist
Book Your Eye Test Now
Give us a call on 0861 693 937 and ask to speak to the optometrist at your local store. Do not be afraid to ask questions, in fact we encourage it. The more you know the better for your eyes, and the more equipped you are to take care of your eyes in the future. After your test, our optometrist will tell you whether you require a prescription or if you need to seek medical treatment.
We will also offer advice on reading glasses, contact lenses and even prescription sunglasses. There are many different types of glasses frames and contact lenses available to choose from and your optometrist will show you how insert your contact lenses, how to look after them and how to clean them.
