What can I expect during my eye examination?
A complete eye examination typically includes all, or an appropriate combination of, the following components:
- Case History: Your eye doctor will ask you for information about your vision and health history, medications, symptoms of vision problems and other background information.
- Visual System Evaluation: Eye Exam Using a number of tests and medical instruments, your eye doctor will conduct an external and internal exam of the various parts of your vision system including the eyelashes, eyelids, conjunctiva, iris, lens, cornea, pupils, extra-ocular muscles, blood vessels, optic nerve, and the retina. The eye doctor will assess the health of your eyes and look for vision problems such as glaucoma, cataracts and corneal diseases. The doctor will also look for ocular changes associated with systemic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and neurological disorders. This evaluation may also include refraction, which determines whether you need prescription lenses or not.
- Diagnosis and Treatment Plan: Your eye doctor will make a final diagnosis and discuss a treatment plan designed specifically for you. The eye doctor will prescribe any necessary treatments such as corrective eyewear or medications.
A complete eye examination takes approximately 90 minutes. Most patients feel comfortable driving after having their eyes dilated. If you are unsure or uneasy driving while your eyes are dilated, please be safe and bring another driver with you to your examination.
After the visit
Once you return home, you may think of additional questions. Please feel free to call or email us through our patient portal. Our goal is that you understand your condition and treatment plan. If you have been referred to EyeHealth Northwest by another doctor, a letter summarizing your visit will be sent to this doctor and your primary care provider.
