Preparing for an Eye Exam
If you are due to have your eyes checked, there are a few things your optometrist will need to know in order to properly diagnose your eye health. In preparing for an eye exam, here are some things you should do.
Making an Appointment
When you make an appointment with the optometrist, describe any concerns you may have about your vision. Some concerns may be:
- blurry vision, flashes of light, poor night vision or double vision
- trouble judging distances or distinguishing between reds and greens
- nervousness about doing certain activities
If you are interested in services such as a Lasik consultation or a contact lens fitting, mention it when you schedule your appointment and when checking in.
What to Bring
If you wear glasses, bring them with you to the exam and, if you wear contact lenses, bring a copy of your most recent prescription.
It’s advisable to bring your sunglasses with you to your exam. The doctor will most likely use a solution to dilate your pupils so he can get a better look inside your eyes and this may make them light-sensitive for several hours. Not everyone has this problem, but it’s best to be prepared. If you know your eyes do become light-sensitive after dilation, you will want to have someone else drive you to and from your appointment.
Your eye doctor will want to know of any personal or family history of eye disease or other vision related problems such as glaucoma or cataracts that are common in your family.
You should be prepared with a list of any prescription medications or supplements that you’re currently taking and the dosages, as well as those you have taken in the past. Tell her about any health issues, injuries, operations or illnesses that you’ve had since your last visit.
Bring a list of any questions you may have for the eye doctor and the name and address of your primary care doctor.
Don’t forget your health insurance card, if eye exams are covered by your provider.
Questions You May Want to Ask
- Has anything changed since my last eye check-up? Should I be aware of anything in particular?
- What are my options for improving my eyesight?
- Am I a candidate for laser vision correction?
- Are there advantages to using both contact lenses and glasses?
- How many hours a day can I wear contact lenses?
- How can I protect my vision while playing sports?
- What can I do differently, if anything, to take better care of my eyes?
When to Follow Up
If you get contacts or glasses for the first time, follow up with your doctor in about two weeks so he can see how well they are working. If an adjusted or new prescription for eyeglasses or contacts isn’t working for you, let your eye doctor know right away.
