What to Expect from a Routine Eye Test

 

Attending routine eye tests is an important part of maintaining good eye health and making sure you’re receiving the appropriate support or care. Whether you’re new to having your eyes tested, or you’re just not sure what to expect, we’ve highlighted the process step-by-step and answered some of the common questions that people have. 

How often should you have an eye test? 

It’s recommended that most adults have an eye test at least every two years to check for vision changes and assess eye health [Sources: NHS and Association of Optometrists]. In some cases, your eye care professional might advise you to schedule more frequent appointments, for example if you have a family history of certain eye conditions or are experiencing changes in your vision or eye health. Similarly, you may need to visit an optician more frequently if your lifestyle or occupation places heavy strain on your eyes, since this may affect how quickly your circumstances might change. 

What happens in an eye test?

There are different aspects to an eye test, and knowing what these are can help you feel prepared and put you at ease before your appointment. While these might vary slightly depending on where you go, your appointment could include the following.

Pre-test 

Before you have your eye test, it is likely that you will have a short series of pre-screening tests. This can include some questions about your general lifestyle e.g. whether you drive, and hobbies. You might even be asked to complete a questionnaire that includes questions about your general health and medication, and family history of eye and health problems. This is so that the eye care professional can get a better understanding of how you use your eyes, any possible risks to your vision and eye health, and then be able to advise you appropriately.

Once this information has been discussed, diagnostic equipment will then be used to assess your eye health and vision. These tests might include:

• Tonometer: This test – also known as the eye pressure test – involves a slight puff of air being directed into each eye to test your eye pressure. The test is likely to be repeated 3-4 times on each eye.
• Autorefractor test: An autorefractor test involves looking at an image in a machine, which appears to be far away. The machine will then take a measurement to help with estimating what your prescription might be. The test is completely harmless and does not involve touching your eyes.
• Digital retinal photography: To check whether the inside of your eyes is healthy, a photograph can be taken of your eyes using a camera. Although it involves a bright flash that can dazzle your eyes for a few moments, it is harmless and does not involve touching your eyes.
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Scan: Some places will offer OCT scans which are hospital-grade cameras that use light waves to produce a 3D image of the back of your eyes, to check your eye health. The scan is quick and simple – all you’ll be asked to do is look into a machine for a few seconds. These tests can then be compared over time to monitor any changes, no matter how subtle they might be. 

Routine eye test with the optometrist

The main part of your appointment will follow the pre-test. During this, your vision will be tested, and you’ll be asked additional questions about your eyes, your general health, your family medical history and your lifestyle.

Some of the common tests include:

• The letter chart: This common test of your distance vision is where you’re asked to read some letters from a chart on the other side of the room, usually on a computer screen or on a wall mounted letter chart, to assess your vision.Your near visionis normally assessed by asking you to read a few words from a paragraph of text.
• Cover test: During this simple test, your eyes will be repeatedly covered and then uncovered to assess how well they align and work together.
• Slit lamp & ophthalmoscopy: A light mounted on a microscope with variable magnification is used to check the health of the front of your eyes as well as the back of your eyes; for the latter, your eye care professional will hold a small lens in front of your eye to see inside your eyes. The light might dazzle you for a few minutes, but it is otherwise harmless.
• Pupil reactions: a small light will be shone alternately between your eyes to assess that your pupils are reacting appropriately.
• Refraction: Your eye care professional will assess your vision and the need for any spectacles through a series of tests. You might be asked to put on a large pair of spectacles or to look through a mounted machine called a phoropter, both of which hold different lenses in front of your eyes. Your eye care practitioner might shine a light in your eyes to estimate your prescription for spectacles, and you might be asked to compare lenses whilst looking at circles, letters or red and green lights on the vision chart. There is usually no right or wrong answer for these tests, you simply need to say what you see!

Depending on the outcome of these tests, your eye care professional might carry out additional tests, to help gather more information and then advise you appropriately.

How long does an eye test usually take? 

A standard eye test typically lasts around 20 to 30 minutes, although this can depend on your personal circumstances. For instance, those with other health conditions or pre-existing conditions like diabetes, dry eye or glaucoma might expect their appointment to be slightly longer.

What can an eye test detect?

The most obvious thing that an eye test can detect is any changes in your vision. If your vision looks okay and there are no other eye health issues detected, your eye care professional will discuss appropriate follow-ups. If any issues have been detected throughout the exam, your eye care professional will run through these with you and any required next steps. These may involve prescription eyewear suggestions or further tests and referrals.

 

An eye test can detect various eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and changes in central vision. It can also be used to spot other general health issues, including diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

How much is an eye test and where can you book yours?

In England, some people are entitled to an eye test funded through the NHS if they meet certain criteria or requirements. In Scotland, everyone is entitled to an eye test funded by the NHS. If you are not eligible for an eye test funded by the NHS, then the cost will depend on the eye care provider that you visit.

Eye tests can be booked at independent optical practices or through chain stores depending on what’s most convenient for you. Finding your nearest Théa eye care professional can be quick and easy with our handy tool available here. Search using our interactive map, or alternatively, you can enter your postcode and find a suitable independent or chain optical practice.

We hope this has helped ease any nerves ahead of your next routine eye test. If you have any concerns about your eye health or vision, we advise you to book an appointment with an optician who can help.  

Maintaining a good eye care routine is key to healthy eyes and our range of Théa products can help. From dry eye drops to eyelid cleansing solutions, you can browse our full range here.