An eye examination usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Sometimes it can take longer if you need extra tests, but this is to make sure you can see as well as possible. As well as testing your sight we will check the health of your eyes and look for signs of general health problems.

Here is what’s usually involved:

At the start of the eye examination, your optometrist will ask why you are having your eyes examined, 
whether it is a routine check-up or if you have come for a specific reason.

If you are experiencing problems with your eyes or vision your optometrist will need to know what symptoms you have, how long you have had them and whether any changes have happened suddenly or slowly over a period of time.

Your optometrist will also need to know about your general health including any medication you are taking, whether you suffer from headaches, or have any close relatives with a history of eye problems.

You will be asked about your previous glasses or contact lenses. In addition your optometrist may 
ask about the kind of work you do and whether you play sports or have any hobbies.

Remember to take your glasses or contact lenses with you when you attend an eye examination. Your vision will be measured both with and without glasses or lenses to check for any problems with your eyesight. 

The optometrist would normally assess your distance vision (for TV and driving), your near vision  (for reading and close work) and your intermediate vision (for computer use).

Your optometrist will then carry out a series of tests to measure the type and extent of any problem with your vision. You will then be asked to choose between different lenses to see which ones help the quality

and clarity of your sight.

After the eye examination

Your optometrist will now have detailed knowledge of the health of your eyes, the standard of your vision and any special requirements that you may have. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if there is something you don’t understand; your optometrist is there to help. You will also be able to discuss the best form of vision correction to suit your individual lifestyle and visual 

At the end of the examination you will be advised of when you should have your next examination.  
You’ll also be given a prescription for glasses or contact lenses, or a statement which confirms that your eyes don’t need correction.

If you need medical treatment for an eye condition you may be referred to your doctor or hospital.

Choosing glasses or contact lenses

When you have your prescription made up, you will be given help in choosing glasses or contact lenses. 
If you choose contact lenses you will be given advice on the various types of lenses available, how to fit them,

and how to look after and clean them. The College of Optometrists advises you to be careful about  buying glasses or contact lenses from somewhere different to where your eyes were tested: if you have any problems, it can be harder for them to be sorted out.

Most optometrists will send you a reminder when your next appointment is due. However, if you have a problem with your vision or your eyes before your next eye examination is due do not wait –contact the practice and make an appointment. 

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