Press Releases: Consumer Guide to an Eye Exam
Press Releases Contact: Susan Thomas (314) 991-4100 ext. 263 Email: SLThomas@theaoa.org
(3/1/1999) - The availability of eye exams everywhere from
discount stores to shopping malls to doctors’ offices often raises questions
in consumers’ minds about the quality of their eye exams. The thoroughness
of the eye exam is the mark of quality, says the American Optometric Association,
and informed consumers are the best judges. Here is what a comprehensive eye
exam consists of:
· A review of your family and personal health history;
· An examination of your eyes’ exterior and interior for signs of eye disease or general health problems, such as diabetes or hardening of the arteries, that may show up in the eyes, and, for adults, eye pressure and field of vision tests to diagnose glaucoma;
· Tests of your ability to see sharply and clearly at near and far distances;
· Tests to determine the presence of nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, depth perception problems and, in people over age 40, presbyopia (an age-related condition affecting reading vision);
· A check of eye coordination and eye muscle function to be certain the eyes are working together as a team; and
· A test of the ability to change focus easily from near to far and vice versa.
Additional tests that are part of a comprehensive eye examination for young children are:
· A check for any indications of crossed-eyes or that the child is not using one eye;
· T ests to check eye-hand-foot coordination; and
· If necessary, a series of tests to determine how well the child’s vision skills are developing.
Thorough care also includes a
discussion of the exam’s findings and any treatment the optometrist
prescribes, as well as personal advice about such matters as good vision on
the job, eye safety, maintaining eye health, prescription lens choices and
environmental factors, such as lighting, affecting a person’s eyes and
vision.
When making an appointment for an eye exam, consumers should ask about the
eye care services provided in the examination fee quoted, the association
says, and should settle for nothing less than thorough care. During the exam,
people should ask the optometrist what each test covers as the test is done.
People should go to their eye exam with information
about their family and personal health history, including allergies; medications
they are taking; problems they are experiencing with their vision; and their
on-the-job and recreational vision needs. The optometrist finds this information
useful in assessing eye health and vision, as well as for prescribing eyewear
and, if needed, treatment of eye disease.