A comprehensive eye exam is a thorough evaluation of the health and function of the eyes. It typically includes a series of tests and assessments designed to assess visual acuity, eye movement and alignment, depth perception, color vision, and the overall health of the eyes.
During a comprehensive eye exam, an eye care professional will typically perform the following tests: Case history: The doctor will ask about your medical history, any current symptoms, and any previous eye conditions.
· Visual acuity test: This measures how well you can see at various distances using an eye chart.
· Refraction test: This determines your prescription for corrective lenses, such as glasses or contact lenses.
· Eye movement test: This assesses the coordination and alignment of the eyes.
· Eye pressure test: This measures the pressure inside the eyes and is used to detect glaucoma.
· Visual field test: This measures your peripheral (side) vision.(add-on)
· Retinal examination: This examines the back of the eye, including the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels.
· Dilated examination: involves the use of eye drops to dilate (widen) your pupils so that your eye care professional can examine the inside of your eyes, including the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels
· Additional tests: Depending on the doctor's findings, additional tests may be performed, such as color vision testing or corneal thickness measurement.
Overall, a comprehensive eye exam is an important tool for maintaining good eye health, detecting potential problems early, and ensuring that corrective measures, such as glasses or contacts, are properly prescribed to optimize visual acuity. It is recommended that adults undergo a comprehensive eye exam every two years, or more frequently if certain risk factors are present.