Understanding the Tests Performed by Your Eye Doctor

Eye exams are essential for maintaining healthy eyes and strong vision. These exams allow your eye doctor near you to evaluate your eye health and catch potential issues before they lead to vision problems in the future. Lock Family Eye Care in West Des Moines, IA, is here to tell you about the tests our optometrists perform during an eye exam to help you understand their importance in preserving your eyesight.

Visual Acuity Tests

Visual acuity tests are often the most recognizable test performed during an eye exam. These are the classic eye chart tests. Our optometrists will have you read from a chart with one eye covered. Doing this determines visual sharpness and if you need glasses or contacts.

Visual Field Tests

While visual acuity tests evaluate your central vision, visual field tests are vital for checking your peripheral vision. Our optometrists will have you use a machine that flashes light in your peripheral vision. You then notify us if you see these flashes of light. The results of this test help us identify eye conditions that cause blind spots, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Pupil Dilation Tests

Similarly to visual field tests, we perform pupil dilation to check for developing eye conditions. We put drops in your eyes to widen your pupils, helping us see your retina and optic nerve in more detail. Doing this allows us to notice signs of diseases like diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration.

Ocular Motility Tests

Another test our optometrists frequently perform during eye exams is the ocular motility test. This test assesses how well your eyes move together. We may ask you to follow moving objects with your eyes or track a light back and forth. Doing this helps identify problems with coordination and focus.

Protect Your Vision With a Comprehensive Eye Exam Today

If you are experiencing vision changes or need to schedule your regular eye exam, consider contacting your “eye doctor near you” at Lock Family Eye Care in West Des Moines, IA. Our optometrists will evaluate your eyes and provide treatment to improve your vision if necessary. Call us and schedule your eye exam today at (515) 267-1312 to protect your eye and vision health.