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Adult Comprehensive Eye Exams
At Edmonds Eyecare Associates, we believe that there is so much more to a comprehensive eye exam than just an accurate glasses prescription. The nature of the eyes and visual system is such that many conditions can produce very similar symptoms. For example, blurred vision can be caused by something as benign as uncorrected refractive error or as serious as uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, or even a brain tumor.
Therefore, during our comprehensive eye and vision exam, we thoroughly evaluate the function and health of the eyes and total visual system to obtain ample information to diagnose the cause of signs noted by our doctors or symptoms reported by our patients. In addition, potentially blinding conditions such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy may cause no symptoms until they are far advanced and the damage is irreparable. We therefore dilate all of our patient’s eyes to allow us to look at all of the ocular structures to identify the presence of any ocular or systemic conditions that may exist without symptoms.
We incorporate the latest technology as well as rely on thorough objective examination of the eyes to ensure that all eye and related systems are evaluated. At the conclusion of the comprehensive vision exam, we take time to thoroughly explain all of our findings, make recommendations, and answer any questions you may have
A summary of our comprehensive adult eye and vision examination includes:
- Detailed patient history
- Measurement of current visual acuity
- Evaluation of current glasses prescriptions
- Vision related screening tests including pupil testing, eye movements, and visual fields
- Measurement of the intra-ocular pressure to evaluate glaucoma risk
- Screening blood pressure testing
- Detailed near vision analysis including alignment and focusing posture
- Determination of the refractive state of the eyes to identify the need for a glasses prescription, taking into account special visual demands and needs
- Detailed assessment of external and internal ocular health, including pupil dilation, and related systemic health conditions
- Thorough education and consultation with the patient regarding his or her visual, ocular, and related systemic health care status, including recommendations for treatment, management, and future care.
The Pediatric Eye and Vision Examination
Vision disorders are the fourth most common disability in the United States and the most prevalent handicapping condition during childhood. Studies show that one out of 10 children is at risk from undiagnosed vision problems. Many eye conditions, including amblyopia (“lazy eye”), muscle imbalances, large refractive errors, and some ocular diseases do not have warning signs and can be easily missed in routine well-care examinations given by pediatricians. These vision problems can interfere with a child’s ability to develop skills and perform to their potential.
At Edmonds Eyecare, we follow the American Optometric Association’s guidelines and advocate early, preventative eye care including examinations at the following ages:
- 6 to 12 months old ,
- 3 years old,
- before entering first grade,
- every 1 to 2 years, as advised by your eye doctor.
The extent in which a child is at risk for the development of eye and vision problems determines the appropriate re-evaluation schedule.
In addition to visual acuity screening, our comprehensive pediatric examination also includes testing for unequal amounts of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism which could prevent one eye from developing properly. We carefully check that the eyes are positioned straight, work well together as a team, and focus accurately. Dilation drops will be used so the doctor can look inside and ensure the health of the eye. In general, although they may be apprehensive, most children find the whole process painless, and often fun! |
