Regular eye examinations are essential for safeguarding your eye health and detecting potential problems early on. But what exactly happens during an eye exam? This guide will walk you through the process so you can feel informed and prepared for your next visit to the optometrist.
Choosing the Right Place for Eye Screening in Singapore
Before diving into the examination itself, it’s important to choose a reputable clinic for your eye screening in Singapore. Hence, you should look for a clinic with experienced optometrists or ophthalmologists who utilise proper techniques and tests and offer a comprehensive range of services. Additionally, a good clinic will not only assess your vision but also be able to provide personalised advice on maintaining optimal eye health.
The Eye Examination Process
A typical eye examination involves several key steps:
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Medical History Review
Your eye doctor will typically begin the eye exam by asking about your medical history, including any existing eye conditions, family history of eye diseases, medications you’re taking, and any specific concerns you may have.
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Visual Acuity Test
This measures the extent of your ability to see clearly at various distances. You’ll be asked to read letters or symbols on a chart, typically the Snellen chart, with each eye and then with both eyes together. This is the part of the eye exam that most people are familiar with, as it’s a common test performed in schools or when getting fitted for spectacles or contact lenses. It helps assess if you have any refractive errors, such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism.
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Refraction Assessment
If you need glasses or contact lenses to correct your vision, your doctor will then perform a refraction assessment to determine your precise prescription. This involves looking through a device called a phoropter and indicating which lenses provide the clearest vision.
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Eye Muscle Function Tests
These tests assess how well your eyes work together and track moving objects. They help identify any eye coordination or alignment issues that could contribute to eye strain or other problems. Your eye doctor might ask you to look at a moving object while keeping your head still. They may also cover and uncover each eye to observe how your eyes focus and move.
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Visual Field Test
This test evaluates your peripheral (side) vision. It helps detect any blind spots or visual field loss, which could be indicative of conditions like glaucoma. You’ll be asked to look straight ahead at a central point while lights flash in your peripheral vision. You’ll then indicate when you see these flashes, allowing the machine to map your visual field.
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Eye Health Evaluation
Your eye doctor will then conduct a detailed examination of the internal and external structures of your eyes using specialised instruments. This may include:
- Slit-lamp examination: To examine the front part of your eye, including the cornea, iris, and lens.
- Ophthalmoscopy: To examine the back of your eye, including parts like the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels.
- Tonometry: To measure the pressure inside your eye, which is important for detecting glaucoma.
After the examination, your eye doctor will most likely discuss the findings with you, explaining any diagnoses and recommending appropriate treatment or management strategies. They may also advise on lifestyle habits and preventative measures to care for your eyes.
Prioritise Your Vision
Regular eye examinations are an essential part of preventative healthcare. Don’t wait for vision problems to arise; schedule an eye test today and take proactive steps to protect your precious eyesight!
