Eye Exams

How often should I have an eye exam?

If you need corrective lenses, like contacts or glasses, you should have an eye exam every year. Your prescription is only valid for 12 months, and an annual exam ensures that your lenses are providing the best possible vision. 

However, even if you don’t wear corrective lenses, you should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once every two years. 

Changes to your visual clarity often happen gradually, and you might not notice any changes in your vision. Additionally, many eye diseases like glaucoma and retinopathy don’t cause symptoms in their early stages. 

Children should have their first eye exam around the age of three, and then again before they start the first grade. Your children should continue to have eye exams every other year, unless they need glasses or have another eye health issue and need more frequent check-ups.

What happens during eye exams?

After you check in with the friendly office staff at LaSante Health Center, a member of the optical team takes you into the office to start your eye health screenings. 

They often begin with screenings for glaucoma and take pictures of the inside of your eye to screen for retinal diseases. They also examine the internal and external structures of your eye using a special type of microscope called a slit lamp.

Then, your optometrist checks your visual acuity — or how clearly you can see at near and far distances. If you need corrective lenses, they use a test called retinoscopy to estimate your prescription. Then, using that reading as a starting point, they use refraction to fine-tune your prescription. 

When your exam is complete, your optometrist gives you a prescription for eyeglasses and/or contact lenses, if you need corrective lenses. The optical team can help you select frames and choose the best lenses for your prescription.

Why are eye exams important?

Your eye health is a critical part of your overall wellness. Being able to see clearly helps your children perform well at school and allows you to function optimally in your day-to-day life. It helps prevent headaches and eye strain. 

Additionally, many of the eye diseases that can cause reduced vision or even blindness don’t cause any symptoms in their early stages. Routine eye exams allow your optometrist to monitor your eye health and provide customized treatments for eye diseases to protect your vision. 

Call LaSante Health Center or make an appointment online today for expert eye exams and eye health care.