Going to the eye doctor doesn't have to be a daunting experience. With the right preparation, you can make sure you get the most out of your visit. To ensure that your eye exam is as successful as possible, it's important to bring your ID and insurance card, keep track of your symptoms, take note of your current medications, and bring your existing eyeglasses and contact lenses. Additionally, it's a good idea to create a list of questions for your optometrist and familiarize yourself with what you should and shouldn't do before an eye exam.Eye strain is a common problem that can be caused by spending too much time looking at digital screens without taking breaks.
To prevent this, make sure to blink often and take regular breaks from screens. During the eye exam, your optometrist may need to dilate your pupils in order to get a good look at the retina. If this is the case, you'll need to wear sunglasses even if it's cloudy outside. It's best to bring your own sunglasses as disposable ones can be flimsy. Caffeine can affect your blood pressure, so it's best to cut back on caffeine before the exam in order to get the clearest reading possible.
Don't hesitate to ask your eye doctor about any problems or concerns you may have, even if they seem minor. Additionally, bring your current prescription for eyeglasses and contact lenses if you wear them. If the eye exam shows abnormal results, your doctor will discuss next steps with you in order to perform further tests or treat an underlying condition. Your optometrist may also measure your eye pressure during the exam. If you have a complete eye exam, this usually includes a retinal exam. After the eye exam, protect your eyes in any season of the year with sunglasses that protect against UVA and UVB rays.
A number of factors can determine how often an eye exam is needed, including age, health status, and risk of developing eye problems. Even if you don't need eyeglasses or contact lenses, it's recommended that you have an eye exam at least every one to two years. Planning ahead and knowing how to prepare for an eye exam can put your mind at ease and help you get the most out of your visit. If you're going to see a new eye doctor or if you're going to have your first eye exam, be prepared to ask questions about your vision and general medical history.
