The eye examination will usually include the following parts:

Symptoms

Several questions will be asked about the reasons for your consultation. This may be that you have simply received a reminder or there could be some specific problem about which you are worried.

If you are having problems, our optometrist will need to know how long you have had them, if any changes have happened over a short or long period and if these are associated with any particular task.

History

You will be asked about your general health and about any medicines you are taking either from your doctor or through other sources. Details of headaches, if any, and any close relatives who have eye problems will be needed to make sure these problems are not present in your eyes. Other information such as your occupation and details of your hobbies will help the optometrist to assess your visual needs and ensure that the correct spectacles are prescribed for your needs.

Examining your eyes

Your eyes will be examined both internally (done by looking through your pupil, there is no discomfort involved) and externally. This will enable us to make an assessment of the general health of your eyes and to identify any other underlying health problems.

The interior of your eye will be examined with an ophthalmoscope which is like a torch which is shined through the pupil of your eyes. We also now have a special digital camera to permanently record the condition of the back of your eye.

Other tests may be carried out, if necessary, such as tests to rule out glaucoma, eye pressures, visual fields, digital photography of the retina of your eyes or colour vision tests.

Vision

Your vision will be tested with and without your spectacles or contact lenses to establish how well you can see and to ensure you are seeing as well as you are able. There are several other tests that follow. The precise order of the tests and the type will depend on the reason for your visit and the results of the initial part of the consultation, as well as your family history. You will be asked to choose between different lenses.

Some people find this difficult. You should not worry if you feel you are giving the wrong answer, or if you are unable to decide. This is a common problem, the optometrist is expecting it will be difficult and it is perfectly acceptable to say you are not sure. All the answers will be checked.

Eye movements and co-ordination. Several tests can be used to make sure your eye muscles are working properly together. This is particularly important to ensure that maximum efficiency is maintained and to keep you as efficient and comfortable as possible. If you have special close work requirements, such as lots of computer work, cross-stitching or other special hobbies or occupations, your examination will take these into consideration and specific advice given.

After the eye examination

Please ask if there is anything you do not understand, we will explain our findings and give you a copy of the prescription or a statement explaining there are no spectacles required.

Costs

Some people may be entitled to NHS examinations which are paid for by the government. Please contact our reception or e-mail us for more information. For those not covered by the NHS or those requiring our special assessments or vision therapy (see Vision & Learning or Vision Therapy) or those requiring contact lenses, there may be an additional fee to pay. Some other tests, such as digital retinal photography and colorimetry, may not be available under the NHS at this practice.