An eye exam consists of multiple tests to gain a comprehensive understanding of your eyesight and your current optical health. You can expect the following tests during your eye exam: Pupillary Response test, Refraction test, a Cover test, and a Visual Acuity test are all standard elements of an eye exam.
Refraction, Cover & Visual Acuity Tests
Before the doctor can determine the results of these tests, the exam will first start by performing a refraction evaluation. A refraction test is a standard procedure during an eye examination. Optometrists use several methods to determine if there is a refractive error of a person’s eyes. These methods include visual acuity tests and retinoscopy exams. The patient is asked to read letters on a chart positioned 20 feet away during a visual acuity test, which is the most commonly known procedure for optometrists.
The Cover test is a standard eye examination procedure. It is usually conducted at near and far distances, and multiple positions may be used during the exam. Abnormal eye positions can cause numerous symptoms, including double vision, headaches, and eye strain. The Cover test gets its name from covering one eye at a time, and helps your optometrist to determine what may be causing your blurred vision or diplopia. The cover test is typically performed at a distance of 20 feet.
If the results indicate that you need to have a new prescription, the doctor will prescribe one for you. After the refraction procedure, the doctor will take images of the front of your eye with a special instrument called a slit lamp. This is helpful for historical data concerning the health of your eyes, and for comparative data on subsequent visits.
Pupillary Response Test
A Pupillary Response test is a standard eye examination procedure. During the eye test, your doctor shines a bright light into one eye while your other pupil remains unreactive to the light. Your pupils’ movement (i.e. dilation, your eye’s natural reaction to prevent an overload of light) demonstrates whether you have deficiencies seeing objects close to you or far away.
The results of this test help your doctor determine if you have any problems with your vision. However, not everyone can respond to light the same way. If this is the case, your doctor may recommend you seek treatment.
Retinoscopy
Retinoscopy is a common method used by eye doctors to measure refractive error. It is an entirely objective test that uses a tiny, hand-held camera to see into the eye. This test determines whether the eye has any type of refractive error, including myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness). Typically, this method is used to diagnose and treat patients with refractive errors, so it’s not a test conducted on every patient, however it is still somewhat common, so be prepared for it during your eye exams.
If you live in or near Orangeville and require an eye exam or new eyeglasses/frames/contact lenses, please get in touch with our team today at 519-941-6761.
