Have your eyes tested today – what happens during an eye test?
By Tina on July 28, 2010Add Comments
Good vision gives a better quality of life. NHS sight tests are available free to people under 16 or under 19 in full time education and to people over 60. People who are on benefits and low incomes are also eligible. Glaucoma sufferers and their close relatives over 40, diabetics and people who are registered blind or partially sighted also qualify.
Our eye sight is so important in our general day to day living, which sadly most of us take for granted. It is concerning that many people in the UK have never actually been to have their eyes tested! Some of us are simply apprehensive at the thought of an eye test, but what exactly does happen during an eye examination, and why is it so important.
There are a number of reasons why you would possibly have an eye test – may be a routine eye test, or you may have a specific eye issue you wish to have looked at, or maybe you have been referred by your GP to the optician. Whatever the reason for your visit, you need to ensure you discuss all your concerns with your optician before the test starts. You may think you need glasses, so mention this to your optician. A good option will probe into your health history, and that of your family too.
After your initial discussion about your situation, your eyes will be tested by using a letter chart, which most of us are familiar with. However, if you cannot read, there are alternate tests which can be done – making use of images or numbers.
The next stage will be to check your outer and inner eye. Your optician will shine a light in the front and back of your eyes to see their reaction to the light, and also to check the general health of your eyes. This is painless and not unbearable, and does not take long. Your optician will ask you to look in several directions, so he can have a thorough look at your eyes and ensure they are healthy and that the muscles controlling the movement of your eyes are working properly.
Finally, your optician will make a decision whether or not you require prescription glasses. You will then be asked to read through various lenses until you are both satisfied you have found the correct and most suitable prescription for you.
If you do require glasses, don’t be too saddened about it. Today there are so many glasses and frames to select from – funky colours and styles from contemporary to classic, that will see you through the seasons and any occasion – certainly preferable to poor eye sight.
Good vision gives a better quality of life – A visit to the optician is certainly worth your while.
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