Critical Vision Consulting: An Optometry Blog

Got An Eye Exam? 3 WaysTo Make Your Optometrist Visit Really Count

27 July 2016

Enni Marttila

Many people make the mistake of thinking that an eye exam with the optometrist is just about reading a few lines and getting a prescription if you need glasses. Being well prepared allows the optometrist to offer personalised solutions for your needs. Follow these tactics to make your optometrist visit count for a lot more than you imagined.

Write Down A List Of Questions Or Symptoms You Wish To Discuss

You probably had a ton of questions or wished to discuss a few worrying symptoms with your optometrist. But in the middle of the eye exam and everything else, you've probably forgotten a few of them. This happens to many people because it's easy enough to get distracted and forget.

For instance, if you are experiencing frequent headaches, then this is something you may wish to discuss with your optometrist. Or if you are experiencing poor vision only at night, then you should check whether you need further tests. Write down a list of questions or symptoms you wish to discuss beforehand, so that you get an answer for everything that's on your mind. 

Keep The Professionals Updated About Any Medication You're Taking

Keep in mind that your eyes can reflect a lot more than their own health. In fact, some problems with your eyesight may be directly related to conditions like pregnancy and diabetes. If you are taking any new medication, then it is important to inform your optometrist of your medical history. Some medicines and ailments can increase the risk of problems related to vision. Your optometrist will be able to provide more personalised care with proper knowledge of your specific medical history.

Bring All Current Glasses To Eye Appointments

Sometimes your eyewear can undergo changes which can affect your vision. When you leave for your appointment, make sure to bring your regular glasses, your contact lenses, your sunglasses, your occupational eyewear and even your reading glasses. This will help the optometrist review your existing eyewear to establish whether any prescription change is required to any of them to maintain optimum vision. The eye specialist will also be in a better position to establish that your eyewear isn't scratched or damaged because these factors could affect your long-term vision if you're not careful.

If you have an upcoming eye exam, remembering each of these steps can make your optometrist appointment even more useful than just learning about the health of your vision.

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