Why You Need Annual Comprehensive Eye Exams
Routine eye exams are an important step towards eye health. They not only prevent eye disease, but also are a great aid in evaluating the overall health of our patients. Early detection provides for a choice of treatment options and reduces the risk of permanent damage.
We recommend routine comprehensive eye exam to evaluate the overall health of the eye and detect any changes that may be indicative of a vision disorder. These exams consist of a series of painless eye tests that examine all aspects of the eye.
The eye exams are conducted in the doctor’s office and are safe for all patients. Based on the findings of the exam, we will develop a treatment plan to best suit your individual needs.
Eye Exam and Consultation
During an eye exam, our team will ask you questions about any symptoms or issues you are experiencing, medications you are currently taking, any blurry vision, your work environment, and your overall health. Family history and previous eye or vision conditions will also be discussed during this part of the examination. Our team will consider this information when determining any treatments or recommendations.
Vision Testing
Regular vision testing and evaluations ensure that you always have the clearest vision possible. Our eye-care service team provides a regular vision acuity test as part of a comprehensive eye exam. Our team will measure how each eye is seeing by using a wall eye chart and a reading eye chart. The results of these tests are portrayed as a fraction, with 20/20 being the standard for normal distance and reading vision. Depending on the results of your vision test, our team may prescribe corrective glasses, contacts, or eye exercises. Vision exams test for conditions such as:
MYOPIA
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a condition characterized by distant objects appearing blurred and out of focus. In the US, almost 1 in 3 people have some form of nearsightedness.
HYPEROPIA
Hyperopia, or farsightedness, is a condition of the eyes where the eye has difficulty focusing on closer objects making them appear blurred. In addition to vision problems, hyperopia can also cause headaches and fatigue.
ASTIGMATISM
Astigmatism causes light to not focus properly on the retina due to an irregular shape in the cornea. An astigmatism can either result in nearsightedness, farsightedness, or in some cases both.
Contact Lens Exam
Our team will discuss the variety of contact lens options with you to select the type that best fits your vision needs and lifestyle. If you suffer from dry eye, allergies, or recurring eye infections, speak with our staff to determine whether contact lenses are right for you.
EVALUATION
Prior to prescribing contact lenses, our team determines what level of vision correction you require. Refractive error (commonly known as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism depending on the error) is evaluated by measuring how the eyes focus when a series of different lenses are placed in front of them. The doctor may use either a phoropter or an automated instrument to take these measurements. To schedule an appointment for a vision evaluation with our Oxnard or Thousand Oaks eye-care service team, call us today.
CORRECTIVE LENSES
After determining the level of refractive error, our team works with you to determine whether contact lenses or glasses are best for your lifestyle. If you suffer from certain conditions, such as dry eye or allergies, glasses may be the most comfortable corrective solution. Contact lenses are available in either soft or rigid gas permeable form. Contact lenses need to be changed daily, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, depending on what type of lens you select. Specialized contact lenses, such as bifocal contact lenses, are also available for patients with special eye conditions. Call us today if you are interested in learning if contact lenses are a good fit for you.
Eye Function Testing
In addition to vision testing, an eye exam in our Thousand Oaks or Oxnard office includes testing eye functionality. Our eye-care team performs several tests to evaluate depth perception, color vision, eye muscle capabilities, peripheral vision, and responsiveness to light. Several other simple tests are completed to determine whether the eyes are focusing, moving, and working together properly. The test results enable our team to diagnose any underlying conditions that may be impairing the eyes ability to focus or work together.
Eye Health
As part of a comprehensive eye exam, our eye-care service team examines the overall health of the eye through a visual examination and tonometry. Our team evaluates eye health by visually inspecting the eye and eyelids using magnification and a bright light. To examine the internal structures of the eye, we may dilate the pupils. Increased eye pressure may be an indicator of glaucoma, so we utilize tonometry to measure eye pressure. After completing these short tests, our team reviews the results and discusses any necessary treatment options with you. Call us today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.
