COMPREHENSIVE EYE EXAMINATION

Routine eye exams are essential to maintaining good eye health. In addition to correcting vision problems, a routine exam can detect many eye diseases, such as glaucoma, before any symptoms are present. Early detection is key to treating such diseases and preventing any vision loss.

Many people get routine exams because they are experiencing difficulty with their vision. The most common vision problems include myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia. Myopia affects about 25% of the population and results in the ability to see clearly up-close, but not at a distance. Hyperopia has the opposite effect, affecting the ability to clearly see near objects. Astigmatism is an irregular curvature of the cornea that makes it difficult for the eye to focus clearly at any distance. This condition can occur in conjunction with nearsightedness or farsightedness.

Presbyopia affects older people due to the natural loss of flexibility of the lens as we age. Individuals with this condition can no longer focus up-close and need glasses for activities such as reading or using the computer.

Examination
At your routine exam, Dr. Chu will assess the overall health and function of your eyes.  The sharpness of your vision will be checked with visual acuity tests.  A pressure test checks for glaucoma.  Dr. Chu may dilate your eyes using drops to get a better view of the internal structures of your eye.  If you are dilated, you should remember to bring your darkest sunglasses, and you should expect moderately blurred reading vision for the next few hours. 

Frequency of Routine Exams
If you are under 40 and have no known eye conditions or diseases, you should have your eyes checked about every two years; if you are over 40, every year is strongly recommended.

Treatment

If you require corrective lenses, a few more tests are conducted to determine the prescription that is best for you. If you prefer contact lenses, you will to be custom fitted for your lenses.