Eye Examination
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms such as eyestrain, headaches, or changes in vision, our expert optometrists are here to help. The Q&A below outlines the key information relating to routine examination appointments.
Why is an eye exam important?
We all rely on our eyesight in almost every aspect of our daily lives. At Eyecare Specialists, we believe that optimal vision and long-term eye health begins with regular eye examinations. This is because the sooner any problems are detected, the better the treatment outcome is likely to be. This is particularly true with young children and the elderly.
More than just identifying whether your eyesight needs correcting, the eye examination can reveal a number of other underlying health problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes. It is also an opportunity to spot eye conditions such as Dry Eye, Macular Degeneration and Glaucoma. Our expert optometrists are trained to spot these issues early, helping you take proactive steps towards better health. It is a vital health check that should be part of everyone's normal health regime.
How often should I have a sight test?
Even if you have no visual symptoms, we recommend that you have an eye examination every two years. It may be necessary to have them more frequently, depending on your age and ocular medical history.
How long does an eye examination take?
An eye exam typically takes 30-40 minutes.
What does an eye examination involve?
1) History and symptoms.
The eye exam starts with a discussion of any visual needs or concerns about your eyes, your ocular and medical history. This will help your optometrist make accurate assessment of your requirements, for example, your occupation, whether you play sports or have any hobbies. If you are having an examination because you are experiencing problems with your eyes or vision, your practitioner will need to know what symptoms you have and how long you have had them. They will also ask whether any changes have happened suddenly, or slowly over a period of time. You must also tell your practitioner if you are taking any medication. They should also be made aware of other medical information, such as whether you suffer from headaches, currently wear spectacles or contact lenses, or have any close relatives with a history of eye problems.
2) Examination
Following this, your eyes will be examined both internally and externally. This will enable an assessment to be made of the general health of your eyes and identify any other underlying ocular problems. Your uncorrected vision will be assessed and if the examination shows that you could benefit from vision correction, the practitioner will ask you to look through a variety of trial lenses. They will ask you about the effect that the lenses have on the quality and clarity of your vision.
During the exam your eye movements are checked to make sure that both eyes are working together effectively and that undue stress is not being placed on them. This is particularly important for those who routinely use screens and for children as their eyes are developing as they grow.
3) Advice
When the exam is finished, the results and recommendations will be discussed about the best solutions for your vision and eye health, whether that’s new glasses or contact lenses. Advice will be given on the most suitable lens for your particular requirement. They can be made thinner, lighter, flatter, reflection-free, tinted or photochromic (reactive to light).
Our first choice of lenses for your glasses is often ZEISS which are exceptional quality. We carry high-quality eyewear collections, including Maui Jim, Lindberg, Reykjavik and Walter & Herbert.
We are dedicated to catering for everyone, ensuring there’s a style, fit, lens and budget option to suit everyone’s visual and lifestyle needs. Fashion and image are important factors, but you should also choose a frame that's compatible with the lenses you need, as well as one that's made from a suitable material. Advice will also be available on the frames most suitable for your face shape and colouring. Don't be afraid to experiment or try on as many pairs as your wish.
When you collect your new spectacles, they will be checked and the fitting adjusted to ensure your comfort and clearest vision. As part of the continuing aftercare your optician will be happy to adjust or make minor repairs to them.
We can also recommend and provide further treatments which can include IPL, Punctal Plugs and Amniotic Membrane fitting if required. Our Dry Eye clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to diagnose and manage even the most complex cases. Often dry eye treatment can enable you to continue to wear contact lenses.
Does a standard eye exam include an OCT scan?
You may be recommended to undertake additional tests such as an OCT scan (Optical Coherence Tomography). This is an imaging technique that allows us to examine the internal structures of the eye in greater detail than would otherwise be possible by conventional means. At Eyecare Specialists, our OCT equipment allows for comprehensive scanning of the entire eye in addition to the macular region.
There can be additional fees when extra tests are needed. OCT scanning is extremely valuable in detecting macular degeneration in its early stages, when it can be most effectively treated. It is also a very useful tool for early diagnosis of glaucoma and its ongoing monitoring.
Am I entitled to an NHS sight test?
We cater for both private and NHS patients. Please refer to our NHS entitlements page for full details on whether you qualify under the NHS.
Book an eye exam
Please contact our Four Marks or Alton Practices to speak to our friendly team and book in an eye examination.