Comprehensive Eye Exam

Early detection of eye issues gives a patient a choice of treatment options and reduces the risk of permanent damage or vision loss. During a comprehensive eye examination, your CVP Physicians Dayton doctor may detect abnormalities or eye diseases such as macular degeneration and glaucoma, which often have no symptoms and can cause irreversible vision loss if left undetected. Serious non-vision related medical conditions such as high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure, can also be detected during eye exams.

Comprehensive Eye Exam Frequency

Even in younger, healthy adults who are asymptomatic, a regular eye examination is essential. Older adults with higher risks may need more regular exams.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends the following frequency for regular eye examinations:¹

• Under 40: Every 5 – 10 years
• 40 – 54: Every 2 – 4 years
• 55 – 64: Every 1 – 3 years
• 65 or older: Every 1 – 2 years

Note: Individuals who have eye health concerns, eye conditions, or risk factors for eye disease may need to visit the eye doctor more frequently.

What to Expect During a Comprehensive Eye Exam

A comprehensive eye examination differs from a vision screening. Vision screenings only test visual acuity (your ability to see at different distances), and are commonly performed by a school nurse, optician, pediatrician or other healthcare provider.

During a comprehensive eye examination, the eyes will be thoroughly tested. The tests may include:

• Visual acuity – reading an eye chart; measures sharpness of vision
• Visual field -– measures central and side vision
• Retinal examination under pupil dilation – allows the doctor to examine the important structures inside of the back of your eye
• Slit-lamp – examines the inner parts of the eye with a special microscope
• Refraction – indicates what prescription you need to see properly
• Tonometry – measures pressure inside of your eye
• Keratometry – measures curvature to detect astigmatism

¹ American Academy of Ophthalmology. Frequency of Ocular Examinations. Available: https://www.aao.org/clinical-statement/frequency-of-ocular-examinations. Accessed June 8, 2020.