Optometry: What To Expect During Your First Eye Exam

Do you have a first-time eye exam coming up? Read on to learn what to expect when you go in for an exam at an optometry office. Optometry exams with an eye doctor are especially important to have on a regular basis. These appointments can keep a patient's eyes in good health while also allowing for the detection of conditions or diseases that might require attention. Additionally, one's vision can be monitored and maintained ensuring that the appropriate resources are provided.

For first-time patients, going to an eye examination can be a bit intimidating, which is normal. Thankfully, optometrists undergo extensive training to perform in a way that ensures that patients are comfortable.

Knowing what to expect from a first-time optometry exam can be helpful for someone who is preparing for their visit. Having an idea of what will occur during the exam may help ease any nerves.

Optometry: What to expect from your first eye exam

Below is an overview of what to expect from a first-time optometry exam. Reviewing this information beforehand can be helpful.

Medical history

First-time optometry patients will likely have to provide some information on their medical and health history. This information can be helpful to the eye doctor when preparing to examine the patient’s eyes. Any medical conditions or genetic issues may also help explain certain abnormalities or imperfections in the eyes. Having this information ready for the first exam can be beneficial and make the appointment run smoothly.

Visual acuity test

Optometrists perform visual acuity tests on patients of all ages. These tests are especially important for people who struggle with their vision. During this part of the optometry exam, the patient should expect to have to read off letters or numbers from a digital monitor or a sign. The optometrist will make a determination about the patient’s eyesight once the test is complete. Depending on the results, the optometrist may recommend a prescription for glasses or contacts.

Glasses and contacts both work to improve vision, allowing for normal activities to be performed, such as reading or driving. Individuals often wonder which route is more suitable, however, it is simply based on preference and the eye doctor's recommendation.

Eye pressure test

Another first-time expectation for someone at an optometry appointment is to undergo an eye pressure test. These tests are extremely helpful for detecting serious eye conditions. During this part of the exam, the patient should expect the optometrist to numb their eye using a special eye drop. Then, the inner pressure will be tested to determine whether or not anything concerning is present. If the optometrist discovers something abnormal, they may run additional tests to come up with a diagnosis and treatment plan.

In the event that glaucoma is detected, the optometrist will likely recommend a number of things, including prescription eye drops and other medications. In serious cases, there may be a need for laser treatment or eye surgery.

Glasses or contacts

For the most part, patients visit the eye doctor because they are experiencing problems with their vision. It is common for patients to undergo an optometry appointment to get started with the process for contacts or glasses. A lot of first-time optometry patients will inquire about either of these options so that the eye doctor can recommend a good treatment route.

Patients can expect the optometrist to thoroughly evaluate their eyes and vision prior to making a recommendation. Glasses or contacts are both great options for vision correction, but some patients may benefit from one over another. For example, those who find it challenging to touch their eyes may benefit from glasses. On the other hand, if one loses things often, having contacts eliminates the need to keep track of glasses.

Other things to know

Optometry offices can also provide resources on maintaining good eye health, which will ultimately lower the chances of developing eye conditions. There are a few tips that an optometrist recommends, which are as follows:

• Eat a diet rich in vegetables and nutrients as this promotes good eye health
• Drink a lot of water on a regular basis to keep your eyes hydrated
• Visit the optometrist at least once a year to be checked for any warning signs

Contact us today

Going to a first-time optometry visit and not sure what to expect? Our team can provide you with further information to better prepare you. Reach out to us today so that we can help answer questions or go over any concerns.

Get more information here: https://www.texasoptical.net or call Texas Optical at (214) 771-7333

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