Healthy Vision Month: Navigating Routine Eye Exams

As we commemorate Healthy Vision Month, it’s crucial to highlight the importance of routine eye examinations for maintaining excellent eye health. At Thomas Eye Group, our dedicated team of ophthalmologists and optometrists works together to deliver exceptional care, ensuring that every patient receives personalized attention and thorough assessments. Let’s explore the details of a routine eye exam and understand why it is indispensable for everyone, irrespective of age or existing eye health conditions, starting with these fundamental questions below:

What is Normal Vision?

Typically, normal vision is described as 20/20 vision, with the first number denoting the distance a person views a Snellen Eye Chart (usually 20 feet), and the second number reflecting their ability to read the chart at that distance. Nevertheless, it is crucial to understand that 20/20 vision does not always mean flawless vision. Some individuals might encounter challenges focusing on nearby objects due to issues such as farsightedness or a diminished ability to focus.

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

People without eye issues should get check-ups every 2-3 years. Aging increases risks, so yearly exams are crucial. Diabetics or those with family eye history should have yearly checks. Glasses/Contact lens wearers need yearly exams for prescription updates, as older prescriptions expire.

What to Expect from a Routine Eye Exam:

1. Ophthalmoscopic Examination:

This comprehensive assessment includes evaluating the eye’s reaction to light, pupil size, eye alignment, muscle balance, and movement.
Your doctor will use specialized tools such as a slit-lamp microscope to examine the health of your eyes, often using dilating eye drops for a better view of the retina.

2. Visual Acuity & Refraction:

Visual acuity measurement determines how well you see at different distances using the Snellen Chart.
Refraction assesses how your eyes bend light to focus properly, identifying refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

3. Visual Field Testing:

This test evaluates your peripheral vision, detecting abnormal blind spots, macular degeneration, optic nerve changes, and other medical conditions such as glaucoma or stroke.

Let us help you Prioritize your eye health!

Your vision matters, and so does your time. That’s why we’re revolutionizing eye care with easy patient access and same-day appointments! No more waiting weeks for a check-up. We’re here to ensure you get the care you need when you need it. If you are due for a routine eye exam, click here to schedule your appointment with one of our optometrists.

Thomas Eye Group also takes numerous leading health insurance plans, though coverage may differ among patients and providers. Click here to learn more about our accepted insurance.