What to Know About Medical Screening at Your Eye Doctor

When most people visit the eye doctor, they’re going primarily for a visual acuity test. However, an eye doctor will have slightly different goals. Not only do they want to determine how well you can see and how far you can see, but they also want to ensure that your eyes are healthy. Below, we’ll look at some standard medical tests doctors use for different eye conditions.

Types of Testing

Below, we’ll look at common medical screening tests in Weston and what they look for:

• Visual Field Testing: While this test may sound like visual acuity, field testing tests the range of your vision. If you’re having trouble seeing from the corners of your eyes, this could be a sign of glaucoma.
• Slit lamp: In a slit lamp test, the doctor will examine your eyes using a bright light and a microscope to look for any abnormalities, including scars, inflammation, infection, or nerve damage. The doctor looks at all parts of the eye during this test, including your retina, cornea, and lens. You may recognize this test if you’ve ever had to have your pupils dilated at the eye doctor.
• Tonometry: Your eye’s pressure has a lot to do with your eyes health. In this test, the doctor or technician will blow a puff of air into your eye to check for elevated eye pressure, which can signal fluid buildup.

Remember that these basic eye tests can tell your eye doctor about your visual health, but it may not be able to tell them anything. If they find anything concerning, they may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.

Visiting an Eye Doctor in Weston, FL

At Rouse Family Eye Care, our staff understands that not everyone is at risk for the same disorders. Whether you have a history of glaucoma in your family or you’ve just been noticing more eye floaters, medical screening can be a great way to set your mind at ease. Plus, even if an eye doctor in Weston, FL does find anything concerning, it’s better to find it out sooner than later. The faster you can get the right intervention, the less likely you’ll suffer major damage.