Many people believe that if they see well, and if they pass a vision screening, there is no need to visit an eye doctor. A comprehensive eye exam does more than test vision.

The doctors and the eyecare professionals at Complete Eyecare, located near you in Mississauga, ON, strive to educate their patients, new and current, on the importance and the necessity of comprehensive eye exams.

Why is it Important?

Your eyes serve as portals offering a glimpse into one’s overall health. Early signs of diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions show in the eyes. Often, it is the eye doctor to first detect the symptoms of these chronic conditions.

During a comprehensive exam, the optometrist will test for visual acuity and common eye diseases. In addition, an assessment will be made as to how well your eyes work together, and an evaluation will be conducted on the health of the retina, the optic nerve, and the blood vessels.

Should Children Get Their Eyes Examined?

Eye exams are important to monitor visual development. Good vision is linked to a child’s performance in school and their participation in sports and other activities. Since children do not have a baseline as to good and bad vision, they do not know to bring attention to a developing problem.

If your child begins to struggle in school and pulls back from activities, then it is wise to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.

How Often Should Adults Have an Eye Exam?

Annual comprehensive eye exams for adults are an important component of healthy vision. Many adults around the age of 40 will begin to experience presbyopia, the natural aging process when small print can no longer be read. The inexpensive drugstore “readers” will help, but what is needed is prescribed corrective options by an eye doctor.

What Does a Comprehensive Eye Exam Include?

The tests included in an eye exam will vary based on the patient’s condition and medical history. However, below is a list of tests typically within the scope of a comprehensive eye exam.

• Visual Acuity – the sharpness of vision (the Big E on the Snellen chart)
• Visual Fields Tests – blind spots or peripheral issues
• Cover Tests – identify specific vision problems
• Retinoscopy – approximate the glasses prescription
• Slit Lamp – detect eye diseases and conditions
• Glaucoma Test – measure pressure within the eyes
• Dilation – examine the optic nerve, retina, and blood vessels

Regular comprehensive eye exams are necessary to protect vision through early detection and treatment. The best advantage of these exams is prevention. Book an appointment with Complete Eyecare for Comprehensive Eye Exam in Mississauga, ON.