General Eye Examination

Visual Acuity Test

This test measures how clearly you can see objects at various distances. It typically involves reading letters or numbers on a chart from a distance, helping the doctor determine if you have nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. The test is straightforward, often using a Snellen chart or random E-chart.

Funduscopy

This examination uses specialized equipment to view the inner parts of the eye, including the retina and optic nerve, to detect issues like retinopathy or glaucoma. The procedure may include eye drops to dilate the pupil, which might cause temporary blurry vision, particularly at close range. It’s especially useful when patients experience sudden vision loss or there is a suspicion of elevated intracranial pressure.

Visual Field Test

This test measures the range of your vision, including peripheral vision, to detect conditions like glaucoma. It can be done manually (confrontation test) or with automated equipment for more detailed results. The purpose is to identify blind spots or assess any limitations in vision that may be due to eyelid conditions such as ptosis.

Slit Lamp Examination

Often used to examine eye diseases, this test allows ophthalmologists to perform a detailed examination using a slit lamp, which projects a thin line of light into the eye to inspect the cornea and lens for issues like cataracts or keratitis. During the exam, eye drops may be applied, and a bright light is used for illumination without causing any harm or discomfort to the eye.

Tonometry

This test measures the pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure). Tonometry can be performed manually or digitally, without direct contact with the eye. It’s essential for early glaucoma detection and for assessing the effectiveness of glaucoma treatments. This test is typically included in routine eye screenings, as many eye diseases, such as glaucoma, often show no early symptoms.

Eye Ultrasound and Biometry

Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to produce detailed images of the eye’s interior, aiding in diagnosing eye conditions and understanding the causes of vision issues. Biometry is primarily used for cataract surgery patients, to determine the power of the intraocular lens needed for optimal vision correction. Biometry also measures the eye’s axial length, corneal curvature, and anterior chamber depth.

Color Blindness Test

This test evaluates your ability to distinguish colors and identifies any color vision deficiencies. Color blindness is often unrecognized by those who have it, making this test essential. Types of color blindness vary, including red-green, yellow-blue, and total color blindness. The assessment includes four main tests: Ishihara, Cambridge Color Test, Arrangement Test, Anomaloscope, and the Farnsworth-Munsell Test.

Auto Refractor Keratometer (Autoref)

This device automatically measures refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism by projecting light into the eye and analyzing its reflection. The results guide the doctor in prescribing glasses or contact lenses for accurate vision correction.

Non-Contact Tonometry (NCT)

NCT measures intraocular pressure without direct contact, using a puff of air to assess eye pressure. It’s a quick, painless test essential for early glaucoma detection and is ideal for routine screenings to ensure comprehensive eye health.

Refraction Examination

This examination determines refractive errors requiring correction, including myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related blurred vision). By measuring the eye’s focusing ability, it helps in determining the appropriate corrective lenses for clear, comfortable vision.

Ophthalmologist Consultation

A consultation with an ophthalmologist is crucial for overall eye health. During the consultation, the specialist conducts various tests to detect eye issues early, recommend treatments, and answer questions related to eye health. Routine consultations assist in preventing and managing conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, or refractive errors, with personalized advice on examination frequency based on age and individual health.